7.19.2008
TRAMBLINGS
A couple weeks ago the Crown Prince and I drove up north to see my family. On the ride back we chanced on a blues station that kept us company for about an hour of the trip. The DJ played a little OTIS RUSH and damn if we didn't find out right then and there where Stevie Ray Vaughn got his style. We're both fans of Stevie Ray but I had to rush home and grab a little Otis for myself. Here's a little for you guys on a Saturday afternoon. "Can't Quit You Baby, But I Got to Put You Down For Awhile".
Nice, huh?
So, I've been reading again. Last fall I lost my ability to start and finish a book which was very strange for me. Reading has always been an escape and comfort but I couldn't concentrate long enough to make it past three or four chapters. My mind was too fragmented I am going to take this as a good sign. A healing sign.
Here are a couple of the titles I managed to complete and enjoy.
THE GARDEN OF LAST DAYS
PRETTY IS WHAT CHANGES. Got to warn you, this one had me curled up in a ball crying my eyes out but it was beautifully done.
And here are two I am reading now.
THE STORY OF EDGAR SAWTELLE.
&
COST.
In other news, the wedding is getting closer. So glad to have something to smile about.
Anyway, I hope you're all well. Send me book recommendations if you get the chance.
Until next time...
A couple weeks ago the Crown Prince and I drove up north to see my family. On the ride back we chanced on a blues station that kept us company for about an hour of the trip. The DJ played a little OTIS RUSH and damn if we didn't find out right then and there where Stevie Ray Vaughn got his style. We're both fans of Stevie Ray but I had to rush home and grab a little Otis for myself. Here's a little for you guys on a Saturday afternoon. "Can't Quit You Baby, But I Got to Put You Down For Awhile".
Nice, huh?
So, I've been reading again. Last fall I lost my ability to start and finish a book which was very strange for me. Reading has always been an escape and comfort but I couldn't concentrate long enough to make it past three or four chapters. My mind was too fragmented I am going to take this as a good sign. A healing sign.
Here are a couple of the titles I managed to complete and enjoy.
THE GARDEN OF LAST DAYS
PRETTY IS WHAT CHANGES. Got to warn you, this one had me curled up in a ball crying my eyes out but it was beautifully done.
And here are two I am reading now.
THE STORY OF EDGAR SAWTELLE.
&
COST.
In other news, the wedding is getting closer. So glad to have something to smile about.
Anyway, I hope you're all well. Send me book recommendations if you get the chance.
Until next time...
Labels: Books, Family, Music, Wedding
7.03.2008
TRAMBLINGS...
It's been awhile and I apologize for that. There's been a lot to adjust to on this end. The new job, planning a wedding, trying to write and maintain a normal home life and figuring out how to grieve and function at the same time. I laugh again and the nights have gotten somewhat easier, but I still have uncontrollable moments of anger. I just miss my mom so much that sadness turns to fury in the beat of a heart. She's been kind enough to visit me in my dreams and that always makes me feel better but I know I have to let go so she can go.
Last week the Crown Prince and I were having the best time out at dinner. A quick trip to BUDDHA'S BELLY after work. Halfway through the meal I could feel my chest start to close and my breathing changed. Right there in the middle of the restaurant I just lost all my cool with absolutely no warning. Ever the pro, C.P. got the check, got me out and took me for a long walk in the park with Old Man Kobe. By the time we got back to the car I felt better but I was surprised at how fast and hard that one snuck up on me. During this entire process I've heard a million stories from people about grieving. Two stuck out and captured what I'd been trying to articulate. 1) "You'll Never Get Over It But You'll Get Used To It." Damn. That one just hit home. So true. 2) "You'll never stop grieving but the episodes of grief will come further and further apart.
I shared both of these with my sisters and it seemed to give them all some comfort. On the positive side, one of things my mother wanted more than anything was a big, rousing 60th birthday party so we're going to throw her one. Cake, balloons, food, family, friends and toasts as long as people can stand and give them. Or, if the celebrations have you laid out on the floor well, then, give them from down below. All I want is a really good time in her honor and a lot of smiles.
Wedding plans are slowly coming along. It helps that I am doing a low key event. We're getting married in September out in Palm Springs. Besides actually marrying the Crown Prince I am most excited about lounging together with family and friends in the days up to after the ceremony. And damn if we didn't go to a kick ass new restaurant that can actually cook southern style food without it being down market, greasy or unhealthy. I almost licked my plate, C.P.'s and my neighbors. When the chef came out to ask if we enjoyed our meal I roped him into catering the event. Nice, huh? The coordinator called me yesterday to "talk menu" and my mouth started to water on cue. Can't wait. For any of it.
Until next time...
It's been awhile and I apologize for that. There's been a lot to adjust to on this end. The new job, planning a wedding, trying to write and maintain a normal home life and figuring out how to grieve and function at the same time. I laugh again and the nights have gotten somewhat easier, but I still have uncontrollable moments of anger. I just miss my mom so much that sadness turns to fury in the beat of a heart. She's been kind enough to visit me in my dreams and that always makes me feel better but I know I have to let go so she can go.
Last week the Crown Prince and I were having the best time out at dinner. A quick trip to BUDDHA'S BELLY after work. Halfway through the meal I could feel my chest start to close and my breathing changed. Right there in the middle of the restaurant I just lost all my cool with absolutely no warning. Ever the pro, C.P. got the check, got me out and took me for a long walk in the park with Old Man Kobe. By the time we got back to the car I felt better but I was surprised at how fast and hard that one snuck up on me. During this entire process I've heard a million stories from people about grieving. Two stuck out and captured what I'd been trying to articulate. 1) "You'll Never Get Over It But You'll Get Used To It." Damn. That one just hit home. So true. 2) "You'll never stop grieving but the episodes of grief will come further and further apart.
I shared both of these with my sisters and it seemed to give them all some comfort. On the positive side, one of things my mother wanted more than anything was a big, rousing 60th birthday party so we're going to throw her one. Cake, balloons, food, family, friends and toasts as long as people can stand and give them. Or, if the celebrations have you laid out on the floor well, then, give them from down below. All I want is a really good time in her honor and a lot of smiles.
Wedding plans are slowly coming along. It helps that I am doing a low key event. We're getting married in September out in Palm Springs. Besides actually marrying the Crown Prince I am most excited about lounging together with family and friends in the days up to after the ceremony. And damn if we didn't go to a kick ass new restaurant that can actually cook southern style food without it being down market, greasy or unhealthy. I almost licked my plate, C.P.'s and my neighbors. When the chef came out to ask if we enjoyed our meal I roped him into catering the event. Nice, huh? The coordinator called me yesterday to "talk menu" and my mouth started to water on cue. Can't wait. For any of it.
Until next time...
Labels: Family, Grief, Wedding
2.16.2008
TRAMBLINGS...
I spent Valentine's Day taking down my Christmas Tree.
A mellow way to spend an afternoon. The last time I left (before Xmas, thus the tree in February) I ended up being away for almost two months. The Crown Prince volunteered to take the tree down for me. Once I came to I politely declined the offer. Just before I blacked out from the thought I had visions of broken ornaments in a shoe box. Anyway, it was a nice, kind offer but since he didn't mind the tree in the living room I decided to leave it there. But, nice or not, I was determined to take it down before I left again.
C.P. and I had a nice dinner on my bday. I dressed up. He dressed up. The woman at the next table in a Puma sweat jacket did not. On our way out we bumped into BRANDY (literally) and it looked like she was on a date with a cute guy. The food was decent if not a little overpriced so we went to another favorite spot before I left town. I also got to see some of my former co-workers, and I took a picture of my parking space at WOMEN'S MURDER CLUB with my name on it. I'll post it here soon.
The dress I told you about in the last post arrived today. Despite the fact that I was sporting bedhead and no make up I slipped it on. It zipped right up, fit like a glove. Perfect. I took it to the cleaners. Only thing I might change are the straps. Pretty crystal straps but too thin for a woman with girls such as mine. I don't want the guests to be riddled with anxiety. And wondering when those straps would snap would surely fill everyone within a twenty mile radius with anxiety. My sister gave me the thumbs up and then tried to talk me into wearing a crown with it. I don't know WHAT is going with her but there is no way I am wearing a crown/tiara or whatever you want to call it. But I might buy one for her to wear around the house or at the grocery store. I also found a beautiful location in Napa. It's so pretty it just takes my breath away. AND we decided on a date. It's a weekday, my daddy's birthday and coming up FAST. Cake tasting is next.
THIS is one of the prettiest weddings I've come across in all my research. THAT TABLE just blew me away. Fancy set up in a rustic looking outdoor setting. ONE MORE LOOK all courtesy of STYLE ME PRETTY a great website for planning and ideas. "Simple" and "Pretty" are the two words I repeat most when trying to pull this together. Most everything on that site falls into one of those categories.
In non-wedding news, I overheard one of the funniest conversations between two women while shopping for pajamas. I was ear hustling so bad that my sister had to pinch me. They were funny, without trying to be, and dead serious about their subject.
WOMAN: Earth, Wind & Fire be having way too much shit going on when they're on stage. You know Philip with his high notes, that tall fool that look freaky as f*ck, the costumes and all those gotdamn instruments.
WOMAN #2: Well, they do put on a show.
WOMAN: But it's exhausting. I don't know where to set my eyes, where to look, what to do. Wears me out. I felt like saying, ya'll nine motherf*ckers step back, only two step forward and don't nobody else move.
WOMAN #2: You would just concentrate on the two in front.
WOMAN: That's right. I wouldn't give a rats ass what the other nine were doing just the two up front.
WOMAN #2: Maybe they could just play behind a black curtain.
WOMAN: Maybe they could.
All this while they thumbed through a box of JC Penney underwear marked $1.97.
Until next time...
I spent Valentine's Day taking down my Christmas Tree.
A mellow way to spend an afternoon. The last time I left (before Xmas, thus the tree in February) I ended up being away for almost two months. The Crown Prince volunteered to take the tree down for me. Once I came to I politely declined the offer. Just before I blacked out from the thought I had visions of broken ornaments in a shoe box. Anyway, it was a nice, kind offer but since he didn't mind the tree in the living room I decided to leave it there. But, nice or not, I was determined to take it down before I left again.
C.P. and I had a nice dinner on my bday. I dressed up. He dressed up. The woman at the next table in a Puma sweat jacket did not. On our way out we bumped into BRANDY (literally) and it looked like she was on a date with a cute guy. The food was decent if not a little overpriced so we went to another favorite spot before I left town. I also got to see some of my former co-workers, and I took a picture of my parking space at WOMEN'S MURDER CLUB with my name on it. I'll post it here soon.
The dress I told you about in the last post arrived today. Despite the fact that I was sporting bedhead and no make up I slipped it on. It zipped right up, fit like a glove. Perfect. I took it to the cleaners. Only thing I might change are the straps. Pretty crystal straps but too thin for a woman with girls such as mine. I don't want the guests to be riddled with anxiety. And wondering when those straps would snap would surely fill everyone within a twenty mile radius with anxiety. My sister gave me the thumbs up and then tried to talk me into wearing a crown with it. I don't know WHAT is going with her but there is no way I am wearing a crown/tiara or whatever you want to call it. But I might buy one for her to wear around the house or at the grocery store. I also found a beautiful location in Napa. It's so pretty it just takes my breath away. AND we decided on a date. It's a weekday, my daddy's birthday and coming up FAST. Cake tasting is next.
THIS is one of the prettiest weddings I've come across in all my research. THAT TABLE just blew me away. Fancy set up in a rustic looking outdoor setting. ONE MORE LOOK all courtesy of STYLE ME PRETTY a great website for planning and ideas. "Simple" and "Pretty" are the two words I repeat most when trying to pull this together. Most everything on that site falls into one of those categories.
In non-wedding news, I overheard one of the funniest conversations between two women while shopping for pajamas. I was ear hustling so bad that my sister had to pinch me. They were funny, without trying to be, and dead serious about their subject.
WOMAN: Earth, Wind & Fire be having way too much shit going on when they're on stage. You know Philip with his high notes, that tall fool that look freaky as f*ck, the costumes and all those gotdamn instruments.
WOMAN #2: Well, they do put on a show.
WOMAN: But it's exhausting. I don't know where to set my eyes, where to look, what to do. Wears me out. I felt like saying, ya'll nine motherf*ckers step back, only two step forward and don't nobody else move.
WOMAN #2: You would just concentrate on the two in front.
WOMAN: That's right. I wouldn't give a rats ass what the other nine were doing just the two up front.
WOMAN #2: Maybe they could just play behind a black curtain.
WOMAN: Maybe they could.
All this while they thumbed through a box of JC Penney underwear marked $1.97.
Until next time...
Labels: Birthday, Wedding, WMC
2.13.2008
TRAMBLINGS
(Photo courtesy of VARIETY)
The Crown Prince and I went to the WGA Theater off Wilshire yesterday to cast our votes. It was like a reunion. Well, a reunion of a high school with lots of famous people judging by the news cameras. The block was lined with media and I got to see quite a few people I've either met on the picket line, through meetings last year or just around the way. ET shoved a mic in my face and asked me to talk about the strike. I politely declined. There were way more people way more qualified to speak on the ins and outs of the strike. Beyond my happiness with the results of the vote, I don't know WHAT WILL HAPPEN.
C.P. asked me to come to town to celebrate my bday so I took a break from the hospital to do just that. Nice to see both him and Kobe. The medical situation continues to be scary but we're all holding up best we can. Last week, because of a transfer, I had to spend an incredible amount of time in San Francisco. I'm from the San Francisco Bay Area but I rarely go into THE CITY, as us Bay Area folks call it. When going out to nightclubs was a part of my weekly life (way back in the day) I knew certain parts of the city very, very well but to quote RAKIM, "It's been a long time." In my Single Girl in The City days, I lived on the GREAT HIGHWAY which was fun but cold as all hell. My sister, who was driving, NEVER ventures into San Francisco so I had to rely on my decade-old knowledge of now-defunct SF nightclubs to navigate the one-way streets and hilly terrain. I didn't let my sister know this until we got where we were going (surprisingly with no problem) but it was a strange way to give directions. "Turn at the corner where BIg Heart City used to be, and then drive to the neighborhood where me, Susan and D used to dance at The Firehouse. Make a left off of Van Ness and go by the building where Five Foot Tongue (not as nasty as it sounds) used to hold parties AND where I saw the Crown Prince for the first time." Once we made it back to the delta I told my sister what I used for navigational tools and after a good laugh she shook her fist at me.
Moving on with the wedding plans and despite the fact that I'm planning a low key event it's stressful. Because we're only inviting immediate family to the ceremony (10 people tops) folks have gotten their feelings hurt. This is something that annoys C.P. beyond reason. Want to make him furious then bitch at him about not being invited. My "peoples" seem to understand, his less so. Weird to me because they're all guys. We're having a big reception in the summer (possibly repeating the vows for the guests) but his peoples still fuss about missing the NAPA event. You guys know from reading this blog just how devoted I am to my childhood girlfriends but none of them will be in attendance. Not a single one has given me grief. See why I love them? Anyway, I told you about "The Dress" in a previous post but it's too formal for the summer party. So, (ya'll should know where this is going) I started searching EBay for a more casual dress. Bingo! Found a really pretty gown for $50. Yep, that's right. $50. I'm thrilled. My goal is to pull off something really nice and sweet without breaking the bank. AND if I win the Lotto I'll invite everyone who wants to attend.
UPDATE: Got an email this morning alerting me that I needed to clean out my offices at WOMEN'S MURDER CLUB. They are striking the sets. Not terribly surprised after yesterday's news but I have never in my life had a job that I actually LOVED. Not like. Loved. There was not a single thing about the process or the people that didn't thrill me. I don't even know if it's possible to find three better bosses than I had. Funny. Sharp. Talented. Generous. The time they took with a newbie such as myself was invaluable. Liz and Sarah sat up with me until four o'clock in the morning, two nights in a row, to get my episode in shape. They never expressed an ounce of impatience and they answered any and all questions that I had. After the first night with them I went home to the Crown Prince and told him that I felt like I was in the middle of dream. I even expressed that here on this blog. This is definitely an interesting business but I am all the way in. Last week when we thought the strike might end, C.P. and I discussed what that meant. He said, "If you go back to work you'll have more money to send home to your family. If you don't you'll have time to spend with your family. Baby, that's six in one hand, half a dozen in the other." Love that. A very healthy way to look at life and this turn of events. I'm also more than convinced that a blockbuster, Emmy winning show is in the near future of Craft & Fain. I am sooooo looking forward to the day Craft walks on stage, in kick-ass blood red stilettos, to get her award.
Until next time...
(Photo courtesy of VARIETY)
The Crown Prince and I went to the WGA Theater off Wilshire yesterday to cast our votes. It was like a reunion. Well, a reunion of a high school with lots of famous people judging by the news cameras. The block was lined with media and I got to see quite a few people I've either met on the picket line, through meetings last year or just around the way. ET shoved a mic in my face and asked me to talk about the strike. I politely declined. There were way more people way more qualified to speak on the ins and outs of the strike. Beyond my happiness with the results of the vote, I don't know WHAT WILL HAPPEN.
C.P. asked me to come to town to celebrate my bday so I took a break from the hospital to do just that. Nice to see both him and Kobe. The medical situation continues to be scary but we're all holding up best we can. Last week, because of a transfer, I had to spend an incredible amount of time in San Francisco. I'm from the San Francisco Bay Area but I rarely go into THE CITY, as us Bay Area folks call it. When going out to nightclubs was a part of my weekly life (way back in the day) I knew certain parts of the city very, very well but to quote RAKIM, "It's been a long time." In my Single Girl in The City days, I lived on the GREAT HIGHWAY which was fun but cold as all hell. My sister, who was driving, NEVER ventures into San Francisco so I had to rely on my decade-old knowledge of now-defunct SF nightclubs to navigate the one-way streets and hilly terrain. I didn't let my sister know this until we got where we were going (surprisingly with no problem) but it was a strange way to give directions. "Turn at the corner where BIg Heart City used to be, and then drive to the neighborhood where me, Susan and D used to dance at The Firehouse. Make a left off of Van Ness and go by the building where Five Foot Tongue (not as nasty as it sounds) used to hold parties AND where I saw the Crown Prince for the first time." Once we made it back to the delta I told my sister what I used for navigational tools and after a good laugh she shook her fist at me.
Moving on with the wedding plans and despite the fact that I'm planning a low key event it's stressful. Because we're only inviting immediate family to the ceremony (10 people tops) folks have gotten their feelings hurt. This is something that annoys C.P. beyond reason. Want to make him furious then bitch at him about not being invited. My "peoples" seem to understand, his less so. Weird to me because they're all guys. We're having a big reception in the summer (possibly repeating the vows for the guests) but his peoples still fuss about missing the NAPA event. You guys know from reading this blog just how devoted I am to my childhood girlfriends but none of them will be in attendance. Not a single one has given me grief. See why I love them? Anyway, I told you about "The Dress" in a previous post but it's too formal for the summer party. So, (ya'll should know where this is going) I started searching EBay for a more casual dress. Bingo! Found a really pretty gown for $50. Yep, that's right. $50. I'm thrilled. My goal is to pull off something really nice and sweet without breaking the bank. AND if I win the Lotto I'll invite everyone who wants to attend.
UPDATE: Got an email this morning alerting me that I needed to clean out my offices at WOMEN'S MURDER CLUB. They are striking the sets. Not terribly surprised after yesterday's news but I have never in my life had a job that I actually LOVED. Not like. Loved. There was not a single thing about the process or the people that didn't thrill me. I don't even know if it's possible to find three better bosses than I had. Funny. Sharp. Talented. Generous. The time they took with a newbie such as myself was invaluable. Liz and Sarah sat up with me until four o'clock in the morning, two nights in a row, to get my episode in shape. They never expressed an ounce of impatience and they answered any and all questions that I had. After the first night with them I went home to the Crown Prince and told him that I felt like I was in the middle of dream. I even expressed that here on this blog. This is definitely an interesting business but I am all the way in. Last week when we thought the strike might end, C.P. and I discussed what that meant. He said, "If you go back to work you'll have more money to send home to your family. If you don't you'll have time to spend with your family. Baby, that's six in one hand, half a dozen in the other." Love that. A very healthy way to look at life and this turn of events. I'm also more than convinced that a blockbuster, Emmy winning show is in the near future of Craft & Fain. I am sooooo looking forward to the day Craft walks on stage, in kick-ass blood red stilettos, to get her award.
Until next time...
Labels: San Francisco, The Strike, Wedding
1.27.2008
TRAMBLINGS...
Apologies for the radio silence. The family illness that I wrote about in the last post has progressed. A silver lining of the strike is the fact that I actually have the time to spend at home. I am in the Bay Area until the strike ends and then I'll probably spend weekends in northern California. I can't thank you enough for the kind emails and messages that you've sent my way. I appreciate it and so does my family. It's a strange time. Within a twenty four period I was in a bridal salon and an emergency room. Blew my mind. The wedding plans are proceeding at warp speed because of the circumstances but it will be relatively low key. The ceremony itself will be for immediate family. We'll have a reception (possibly a repeat of the vows) in July that will include the blow out party with all the dancing, food, etc. My plan is a southern-style BBQ but my sister insists that BBQ and a white dress are a big, big mistake. We'll see.
Anyway, the support that has come my way has been staggering. I've spent tons of time talking about my girlfriends and, as always, I don't know what I'd do without them. They make me feel lucky in this lifetime, as do the women of the Finish Party, sorority sisters, various co-workers from over the years and my sisters. I cannot fathom a life without female friendships. It wouldn't work for me. I'm always tempted to make the sign of the cross when I meet women who don't have girlfriends. Makes them suspect in my eyes. A little judgemental but that's my honest take on it. About ten years ago I worked for a woman who told me "women can't be trusted" to justify why she only hung out with men. I smiled, nodded and immediately translated her words to, "I can't be trusted. Ever." Turned out to be true. Big time. More on that later.
(Stephen King's DUMA KEY)
Still having trouble staying focused enough to read. I've stopped and started at least ten books. Nothing holds my interest. My mind is too wild. Magazines, short stories and movies are about all I can handle. Stephen King might do the trick with something fantastical. Glad to see he has something new in stores.
Lastly, I believe I found my wedding gown. I said I wanted "the dress" and I think I found it when I broke down into sobs once I put it on. Granted I am under a lot of pressure and extremely emotional but it was just so pretty. One of my girlfriends was with me and she cried too. The women in the salon dubbed the dress their "Sophia Loren". More red carpet than princess which is exactly what I wanted. You know, age-appropriate and all that. I did try on a princess gown for the sake of pleasing my sister and I looked ridiculous. Like a stompy little oompah loompah. We had a good laugh before I took it off. I have one more appointment next week. I'm going to try on a couple more dresses but, seriously, Sophia Loren will be a hard act to follow.
Until next time...
Apologies for the radio silence. The family illness that I wrote about in the last post has progressed. A silver lining of the strike is the fact that I actually have the time to spend at home. I am in the Bay Area until the strike ends and then I'll probably spend weekends in northern California. I can't thank you enough for the kind emails and messages that you've sent my way. I appreciate it and so does my family. It's a strange time. Within a twenty four period I was in a bridal salon and an emergency room. Blew my mind. The wedding plans are proceeding at warp speed because of the circumstances but it will be relatively low key. The ceremony itself will be for immediate family. We'll have a reception (possibly a repeat of the vows) in July that will include the blow out party with all the dancing, food, etc. My plan is a southern-style BBQ but my sister insists that BBQ and a white dress are a big, big mistake. We'll see.
Anyway, the support that has come my way has been staggering. I've spent tons of time talking about my girlfriends and, as always, I don't know what I'd do without them. They make me feel lucky in this lifetime, as do the women of the Finish Party, sorority sisters, various co-workers from over the years and my sisters. I cannot fathom a life without female friendships. It wouldn't work for me. I'm always tempted to make the sign of the cross when I meet women who don't have girlfriends. Makes them suspect in my eyes. A little judgemental but that's my honest take on it. About ten years ago I worked for a woman who told me "women can't be trusted" to justify why she only hung out with men. I smiled, nodded and immediately translated her words to, "I can't be trusted. Ever." Turned out to be true. Big time. More on that later.
(Stephen King's DUMA KEY)
Still having trouble staying focused enough to read. I've stopped and started at least ten books. Nothing holds my interest. My mind is too wild. Magazines, short stories and movies are about all I can handle. Stephen King might do the trick with something fantastical. Glad to see he has something new in stores.
Lastly, I believe I found my wedding gown. I said I wanted "the dress" and I think I found it when I broke down into sobs once I put it on. Granted I am under a lot of pressure and extremely emotional but it was just so pretty. One of my girlfriends was with me and she cried too. The women in the salon dubbed the dress their "Sophia Loren". More red carpet than princess which is exactly what I wanted. You know, age-appropriate and all that. I did try on a princess gown for the sake of pleasing my sister and I looked ridiculous. Like a stompy little oompah loompah. We had a good laugh before I took it off. I have one more appointment next week. I'm going to try on a couple more dresses but, seriously, Sophia Loren will be a hard act to follow.
Until next time...
Labels: Family, Friendships, Wedding
12.30.2007
TRAMBLINGS...
(Starry Night Cake by NANCYKAY)
Sooooooo...I've been out looking for a wedding dress and all I have to say on the subject is, "Can a girl get a sleeve?" I mean damn, the designers are pretty stingy when it comes to handing out sleeves. I don't want much, a little cap, a shrug, just some sort of material on the extremities. At least give me a choice. All I'm saying.
The Crown Prince and I returned to L.A. on the 27th, by car of course, so that Kobe could travel with us. Something he appreciated since he loves my mother's house. It's quiet and calm there, my sister gives him treats and they live a couple houses down from a great hiking trail, hills and a million other places to run and pretend he's the King of the Serengeti. Plus, my sister takes him on two walks a day. She spoils him and he adores her.
Anyway, we returned on the 27th and one of my best girlfriends arrived the same day. We ate our way through the city after I got a last minute reservation at MOZZA. They seated us at 3:00 o'clock and we finally tore ourselves away from the table at 5:15. It was ridiculous and unladylike but worth every bite and every dime. The next stop (not in the same day, don't be crass) we went to CYNTHIA'S. (Yep, everything in that review was true. Cynthia herself was a nightmare). Again, we ate like savages, regretted nothing, then moved on to THE GRIDDLE the next day. I planned to cook for her while she was here but I didn't bust out one pot beyond a quick breakfast on Saturday. We were chicks on a mission. Shopping.
She's the master thrift store shopper and I needed a winter coat (it's been cold). I'd been eyeing the wool coats all through Xmas and they finally went down to 70% off so I hauled ass and grabbed one. It'll come in handy while I'm in the Bay Area for the next month. My mom lives in the Sacramento Delta region and after all these years in southern California the winter air in northern Cali feels like ice to me. But, after all that stalking and planning on my part, my girlfriend went to OUT OF THE CLOSET and found a winter white Kenneth Cole coat for $15.
Once we got the coat out of the way it was back to wedding books, wedding websites and all that other nonsense. The cottage industry that surrounds the exchanging of vows has the scent of snake oil to me. Just a racket. And I am not a fan of the full court press you get in salons. I'm grown, I've lived with this body a long time so don't "pull dresses for me"...let me look. All I want, really, is for C.P. to say, "You look pretty, baby." The rest of it (invitations, RSVPs, favors, gift bags, place settings, consultants, wine glasses and matches with our names) I can do without all of that so I am. I enjoy a wedding more than most but I don't think I'm in the frame of mind to deal with the minutia. Maybe if I was twenty three but, now, after all this mileage...not so much.
But, and this is a big but, I want "the dress". You know, that dress that will give me chills when I see it. Don't know where it is, don't know where I'll find it but I'm going to hunt it down. You also must know after all this time that a chica has expensive tastes and no budget whatsoever to support that but I'm crafty enough to get around it. My top choices all have that distinctive ring tone of "Chelle Is Tripping" but I have a plan. CAROLINA HERRERA (all time favorite), OSCAR DE LA RENTA, (see what I mean about the sleeve thing?) MONIQUE LHUILLIER, MARCHESA, PRONOVIAS, JUNKO YOSHIOKA, and Ali Rahimi at MON ATELIER all have dresses that I love. You might be surprised that MS. VERA isn't on that list but I got no love for Wang. I read a feature on the designer in which she revealed just how much she detests the brides that have made her rich. Can't love that. At all.
That's my list and just in case you're horrified, and maybe a little embarassed by my delusion, know this...my mom is a master tailor. My favorite gown might be $9,000 in the showroom (that's the price of the one at the top of my list) but the dress I wear will be the price of the fabric that I purchase for myself. There are a couple places here in L.A. that specialize in knock-offs. Women bring in photos of the dresses they like and they make it for you. That's my back up plan so no worries about me losing my mind and spending a fortune I don't have. I met a woman on a plane once who confessed that she was still paying for her wedding and she'd been divorced for three years. Now how horrifying is that? If that doesn't put things into perspective I don't know what does.
The ceremony itself will be small and intimate (no more than 10 people) with no reception, just a great dinner in a nice restaurant with a really pretty cake. Honeymoon, wedding, dinner all in one location. We'll take a longer, bigger trip later and there's a slim chance of a party (not a reception) down the road but C.P. cringes at the idea so we'll see. The bridal shower/brunch will be my only chance to "do that damn thing" and I plan to do just that. I'm not into male strippers, clubbing, getting drunk until I can't see, cocaine or whores which makes brunch just my speed. I'm thinking fifty girls laughing, screaming, taking pictures, eating, telling stories and looking fabulous. I might do one in Los Angeles and one in the Bay Area. I know, I know, but a chick has to get her "girl" on one way or another. And since planning this shindig means honoring the wishes of a very lovely man who wants to be left out of everything but the "me and you and the marriage itself" then I'll do the hoopla stuff with my girls. So, there you go. That's my plan and, of course, it's always subject to change but at this moment it feels good to me.
Until next time...
(Starry Night Cake by NANCYKAY)
Sooooooo...I've been out looking for a wedding dress and all I have to say on the subject is, "Can a girl get a sleeve?" I mean damn, the designers are pretty stingy when it comes to handing out sleeves. I don't want much, a little cap, a shrug, just some sort of material on the extremities. At least give me a choice. All I'm saying.
The Crown Prince and I returned to L.A. on the 27th, by car of course, so that Kobe could travel with us. Something he appreciated since he loves my mother's house. It's quiet and calm there, my sister gives him treats and they live a couple houses down from a great hiking trail, hills and a million other places to run and pretend he's the King of the Serengeti. Plus, my sister takes him on two walks a day. She spoils him and he adores her.
Anyway, we returned on the 27th and one of my best girlfriends arrived the same day. We ate our way through the city after I got a last minute reservation at MOZZA. They seated us at 3:00 o'clock and we finally tore ourselves away from the table at 5:15. It was ridiculous and unladylike but worth every bite and every dime. The next stop (not in the same day, don't be crass) we went to CYNTHIA'S. (Yep, everything in that review was true. Cynthia herself was a nightmare). Again, we ate like savages, regretted nothing, then moved on to THE GRIDDLE the next day. I planned to cook for her while she was here but I didn't bust out one pot beyond a quick breakfast on Saturday. We were chicks on a mission. Shopping.
She's the master thrift store shopper and I needed a winter coat (it's been cold). I'd been eyeing the wool coats all through Xmas and they finally went down to 70% off so I hauled ass and grabbed one. It'll come in handy while I'm in the Bay Area for the next month. My mom lives in the Sacramento Delta region and after all these years in southern California the winter air in northern Cali feels like ice to me. But, after all that stalking and planning on my part, my girlfriend went to OUT OF THE CLOSET and found a winter white Kenneth Cole coat for $15.
Once we got the coat out of the way it was back to wedding books, wedding websites and all that other nonsense. The cottage industry that surrounds the exchanging of vows has the scent of snake oil to me. Just a racket. And I am not a fan of the full court press you get in salons. I'm grown, I've lived with this body a long time so don't "pull dresses for me"...let me look. All I want, really, is for C.P. to say, "You look pretty, baby." The rest of it (invitations, RSVPs, favors, gift bags, place settings, consultants, wine glasses and matches with our names) I can do without all of that so I am. I enjoy a wedding more than most but I don't think I'm in the frame of mind to deal with the minutia. Maybe if I was twenty three but, now, after all this mileage...not so much.
But, and this is a big but, I want "the dress". You know, that dress that will give me chills when I see it. Don't know where it is, don't know where I'll find it but I'm going to hunt it down. You also must know after all this time that a chica has expensive tastes and no budget whatsoever to support that but I'm crafty enough to get around it. My top choices all have that distinctive ring tone of "Chelle Is Tripping" but I have a plan. CAROLINA HERRERA (all time favorite), OSCAR DE LA RENTA, (see what I mean about the sleeve thing?) MONIQUE LHUILLIER, MARCHESA, PRONOVIAS, JUNKO YOSHIOKA, and Ali Rahimi at MON ATELIER all have dresses that I love. You might be surprised that MS. VERA isn't on that list but I got no love for Wang. I read a feature on the designer in which she revealed just how much she detests the brides that have made her rich. Can't love that. At all.
That's my list and just in case you're horrified, and maybe a little embarassed by my delusion, know this...my mom is a master tailor. My favorite gown might be $9,000 in the showroom (that's the price of the one at the top of my list) but the dress I wear will be the price of the fabric that I purchase for myself. There are a couple places here in L.A. that specialize in knock-offs. Women bring in photos of the dresses they like and they make it for you. That's my back up plan so no worries about me losing my mind and spending a fortune I don't have. I met a woman on a plane once who confessed that she was still paying for her wedding and she'd been divorced for three years. Now how horrifying is that? If that doesn't put things into perspective I don't know what does.
The ceremony itself will be small and intimate (no more than 10 people) with no reception, just a great dinner in a nice restaurant with a really pretty cake. Honeymoon, wedding, dinner all in one location. We'll take a longer, bigger trip later and there's a slim chance of a party (not a reception) down the road but C.P. cringes at the idea so we'll see. The bridal shower/brunch will be my only chance to "do that damn thing" and I plan to do just that. I'm not into male strippers, clubbing, getting drunk until I can't see, cocaine or whores which makes brunch just my speed. I'm thinking fifty girls laughing, screaming, taking pictures, eating, telling stories and looking fabulous. I might do one in Los Angeles and one in the Bay Area. I know, I know, but a chick has to get her "girl" on one way or another. And since planning this shindig means honoring the wishes of a very lovely man who wants to be left out of everything but the "me and you and the marriage itself" then I'll do the hoopla stuff with my girls. So, there you go. That's my plan and, of course, it's always subject to change but at this moment it feels good to me.
Until next time...
Labels: Food, Girlfriends, Wedding
