Monday Wedding Update

In an attempt to share what's going on with me I'm going to make every effort to blog on a regular basis between now and THE wedding (Sept. 27). My objective being three-fold: to openly put in writing what it is I need to do and accomplish in these final weeks; allow the reader some insight into what the final weeks of wedding preparation entails; and to communicate with my mass audience a little of what's going on for me lately.

Gia's been away for the 4 days, starting with her bachelorette party weekend in Aptos where numerous of her closest friends have gathered in and out of a beach house. Today, however, she is attending the funeral of her Dad's long-time business partner, John O'Brien, who passed away a few days ago. Just yesterday her Uncle Marvin Grimsley died after his long illness. Marv, married to Gia's aunt Maria was very close to the family as lived just blocks away from The Borelli's. The funeral is scheduled for this Saturday.

Meanwhile, I have to figure out if I can attend the funeral as I previously scheduled to work a major event at KQED with stars of the 60's including Carol Lawrence and a bunch of musicians in the Pledge event of the year. Lately I've been working both in the office at SFJAZZ, doing about one show a week all summer, and picking up a few night and weekend shift at the Q (KQED). This additional income has come in handy with all the wedding expenses that one incurs at this time.

My credit card company (CitiCard) offered me something called, "life events" or something to that effect, that allows for a delay in payments for a 2 months. The charge a fee, but apparently it's less than if I'd pay the normal APR. Meanwhile, I'm getting all these points, which I have no idea how it works. All I know is I wasn't able to work out a free honeymoon trip, which I hear is what others do.

I've been known to do a lot of reading and research on certain things, but with finance I'm like a deer in the headlights. My Dad, on the other hand, is the master of all things financial. And Gia is quite good at keeping track and investing, I could learn a thing or two from them.

This weekend, my nephew and best man Altie came over and we headed into The Mission for dinner. The vibe was pretty kewl in SF as the Power to the Peaceful concert was going on, led by Michael Franti. Ironically, he came into the restaurant we ate at, Bissap Baobab, with his entrougage in toe. Later we had drinks at a few places and I showed Altie a taste of the club life for one last time as a single guy. It was fun, but I was reminded of why I'm happy to be married and away from the dating game.

Just as Altie left on Sunday, and the 49ers lost their home opener, my friend Colleen came over for a visit after her angel workshop. We had a great dinner out at the Citrus Club, a noodle bar, and a nice conversation that lasted so late she got home around midnight, and wrote me this morning to say how groggy she was but how worthwhile it was regardless. Co and I go way back and our conversations are free-flowing and wonderful.

I had intended on spending the entire weekend with Katherine Heigl (the hot one in Grey's Anatomy) but ended up only watching her in "Knocked Up" and saving "27 Dresses" for when Gia's comes home. But with the funerals, wedding planning, work and appointments, it's unlikely Gia will take time for a movie. I squeeze in the Netflix when I can, but it's not a priority for the wife-to-be.

I managed to put off my secret wedding project on account of all the visitors. This project, although planned in my head for about 6 months, has seen little daylight in actually coming to fruition. But I hope to make up for it tonight and in the weeks to come.

Today, I'm back at SFJAZZ, where I'll do some paperwork and potentially leave early to get to the passport office. Gia pointed out that we needed passport updates for our Mexican honeymoon which is recommended but not required, I think, and we are running out of time. I figure it will all work out.

Lately, it's been my M.O., to relax and not worry about things so much and allow them to take their course. Also, allowing Gia to play her part as the bride who makes the final decisions. Oh, my Dad would be happy to know that the final step on the cupcakes has been determined.