I bought a fixer upper. I've put as much into is it as the selling price. And there's more on the way. I kind of wonder what it would have been like to buy one that wasn't a money sink - more free time, more money to do other things, etc. The other issue is when we have people over, and the guests get the house tour - the first thing the wife talks about how she doesn't like this or that and it's the "next phase". But at least I have a hobby.
But at least my house is one block from the bay. What's the point of living on the coast if you can't walk to the beach? Then again, I prolly could of bought my own beach by now.
As far as the wedding goes, tt might seem it's a wedding for both of you...but it's for her. Just shut up...the only thing you have to do is show up and memorize your answers during the planning process.
-Any question she asks that starts with "I think.." as in "I think we should have the wedding during the Colts game. What do you think?" or "I think my aunt should sing at the wedding. What do you think?" Answer: Sounds great honey. She's telling you what she wants. She's not really asking you.
-If you are given a choice, the correct answer is "They are both good choices. Whatever you want is fine."
-If "Whatever you want is fine" isn't good enough, never refer the question to her mother...she's already asked her mom, now she's asking you. So the correct response is to choose the option you don't like. She'll disagree with you and choose the other choice.
-Remember when you go thru the guest list and seating arrangements it's really her decision. Because let's be honest, you don't care where people sit - but you do need to move one or two people to give the illusion of participation.
-Remember your family is an embarassment and her family is royalty. So when the future mother-in-law calls with a ridiculous request and you get the message, the worst thing you can do is tell your financee her mom's request, and tell her "no way". You have no right and most likely she's going to do it anyway. Instead, forget to tell her the message - that's your only hope, because you are not allowed to argue with royalty.
-Remember it's a reunion and not a wedding, and you are a trophy. Shake a hand, smile and get whipped by some high school story you have no interest in. After all, its important to your wife that the high school buddy she never sees again thinks you are a nice guy.
-Never ask her siblings direct questions. It will help you after the wedding, because after all...asking questions develops in them a sense that you respect their opinions. And therefore, if you respect their opinions they will feel free to provide you unsolicited advice at any time.
This really sounds lighthearted, but its relatively true...
The only thing I would encourage is:
-after the I do's, walk to the back of the church and meet everyone on the way out. Don't wait for the reception. That way you've had a chance to talk with everyone and don't have to do it so much at the reception.
