I'm not going to go into much detail about the convention itself, but so far I'm pretty impressed.
the Democrats seem like the ones who can honestly understand the problems of the Middle-Class. They know what we're dealing with, and they have good solutions that will to get us there.
Their platform can be summarized in 2 points.
Rebuild the American Dream
restore America's standing in the world
The American dream is not based on what you can buy, it's not about having a house and a car and a pool. Everybody has their own dream, and the promise of America is that every child should have the opportunity to reach that dream if they try. This is not a society of classes, America is the place where those who work hard get ahead in life. That is a basic American value, and it has been under assault for the past 8 years.
Restoring America's standing in the world. "People the world over have always been more impressed by the power of our example than by the example of our power." It is NOT in our self-interest to be isolated and despised by other countries. To be respected we need to lead by example, and quit yelling at other countries to do as we say, not as we do.
Here's the great side effect of this campaign; They are empowering the American people, building efficacy, and convincing us that if we work for it, we can create a better America together. That's powerful stuff, and it goes beyond just selling the Democratic party, it's bigger than that. It says Americans determine the course of our own country.
The one thing that's missing from the message so far...
Adopting a progressive platform is in America's self-interest.
We need and educated public so we can innovate better and faster than the rest of the world.
We need smart poor kids to have the chance to get out of the ghetto and put their great ideas to use for America.
We need renewable energy, because we know everyone is going to want it, and if we have the best product, made in America, then we win economically.
We need allies and international laws, to settle disagreements between nations. So we don't have to send our ambitious young people off to be killed, maimed, and mentally devastated. Our military people should be at home raising their families, instead of leaving them to worry night and day about your safety.
We need to end the War in Iraq, because it is bankrupting our country, as we borrow money to pay for a mistake.
We need universal healthcare, because at some point everybody needs medical attention, and nobody should lose their house because of a medical bill. Families should be able to focus on raising their kids. And not have to work two jobs just to afford for-profit health insurance.
We need to rebuild our infrastructure, because we don't want bridges to fall down while we drive over them, or levees to break and flood cities. The government has a job to do, and it would employ millions of Americans.
We need a strong middle class, because that's what drives our economy, and helps people realize their American Dream.
Americans are a proud people. We can accomplish anything. We're smart ambitious and innovative. We've been on the cutting edge many times in our history. We've invented incredible things, and achieved great progress. As a nation, we need to tap into that American spirit, and trust the American people. We need a government that believes in us and partners with us, instead of a selfish government that hides from us and deceives us.
If I were a Democrat I'd be appealing to the practical side, as well as the proud side of America.
We'll see what Barrack Obama says tonight. I liked Bill Clinton's speach the best so far, though Hillary, Michelle, Kucinnich, and Joe Biden were also good.
I'm glad the Clinton Obama primary battle is over. Now Obama can run on President Clinton's record of success too, and he doesn't have to run against both political establishments. He can focus on what the Republicans have done since they seized all the wheels of power. Everything has gone wrong over the past 8 years, and because of that the Democrats have a platform that comes with empirical evidence. And if they do succeed in empowering the American people, they'd better stick to the high road, or we'll hold them accountable too.
Dcoffee's Journal
My Podcast Link
08/28/2008 10:55 #45482
Democrats doing pretty goodCategory: politics
08/22/2008 09:26 #45408
Sick of the Swing VotersCategory: politics
I can't take it anymore. Seems like the Obama Campaign is resorting to conventional wisdom, moving to the center, compromising, watching the polls, and changing his position to appease the schmucks who make up their minds based on TV adds.
Telling people what they want to hear will fuck you over. You can't change the game of politics, without changing the game of presidential campaigning. Being honest and truthful isn't enough. Registering millions of new voters isn't enough. Fighting the smears isn't enough.
Here's the problem, The largest voting block in America IS THE ONE THAT STAYS FUCKING HOME! It's the young voters and the cynics. How did Obama get the nomination? By inspiring millions of people to volunteer their time. By making people feel like they could be part of the solution. Making us feel like we had the power to take the country back. The new generation of voters is ready to see some serious change in this country, and we're willing to do it our fucking selves. Those are the people you need.
Oh sure, you can register a million new voters, but come election day, they need to be passionate about their candidate, not just scared of the other guy. Or else they won't bother.
I don't know who Obama is talking to but he's getting some bad advice. Remember the Gas Tax holiday? Yea, he called it a sham, and got enough respect to bounce over Clinton. But today we're talking about Offshore Drilling, and suddenly Obama is an appeaser. The Oil Comapnies have leases to 100 million acres of land, 33 million of which are offshore
But they aren't drilling because they make more money when supply is tight. Force McCain to address that question, are you with the Oil Companies or with the American people? But instead Obama wimps out, drilling should be part of the energy formula blah blah... If the oil companies still have lands where they can get oil they don't need more, we can talk about that when they've used what they already have. Taking on the oil companies makes you a hero, thanks for blowing that one.
Add the FISA bill to the list of wimp-outs, and the bullish rhetoric toward Iran. And you start to look like the same old same old. That doesn't get my vote, it doesn't get me to volunteer to phonebank from my home, or pick up a friend on the way to the polling booth, or to sit at a table on campus to register voters. And it won't get my father in-law back to Pennsylvania as a campaign volunteer either. Now you start to see why the ambiguous middle doesn't matter.
Me, you think I'll vote for him anyway, I'm a New York Democrat now, so why not take my vote as a given, and start campaigning for the center. Actually no, I'm one of those crazy motherfuckers who will vote for Cynthia McKinney just to prove a point. Wasting my vote? Yea right, she will appreciate it more than the chosen two. And I'll keep voting with my finger in the air until I get my third party.
Telling people what they want to hear will fuck you over. You can't change the game of politics, without changing the game of presidential campaigning. Being honest and truthful isn't enough. Registering millions of new voters isn't enough. Fighting the smears isn't enough.
Here's the problem, The largest voting block in America IS THE ONE THAT STAYS FUCKING HOME! It's the young voters and the cynics. How did Obama get the nomination? By inspiring millions of people to volunteer their time. By making people feel like they could be part of the solution. Making us feel like we had the power to take the country back. The new generation of voters is ready to see some serious change in this country, and we're willing to do it our fucking selves. Those are the people you need.
Oh sure, you can register a million new voters, but come election day, they need to be passionate about their candidate, not just scared of the other guy. Or else they won't bother.
I don't know who Obama is talking to but he's getting some bad advice. Remember the Gas Tax holiday? Yea, he called it a sham, and got enough respect to bounce over Clinton. But today we're talking about Offshore Drilling, and suddenly Obama is an appeaser. The Oil Comapnies have leases to 100 million acres of land, 33 million of which are offshore
But they aren't drilling because they make more money when supply is tight. Force McCain to address that question, are you with the Oil Companies or with the American people? But instead Obama wimps out, drilling should be part of the energy formula blah blah... If the oil companies still have lands where they can get oil they don't need more, we can talk about that when they've used what they already have. Taking on the oil companies makes you a hero, thanks for blowing that one.Add the FISA bill to the list of wimp-outs, and the bullish rhetoric toward Iran. And you start to look like the same old same old. That doesn't get my vote, it doesn't get me to volunteer to phonebank from my home, or pick up a friend on the way to the polling booth, or to sit at a table on campus to register voters. And it won't get my father in-law back to Pennsylvania as a campaign volunteer either. Now you start to see why the ambiguous middle doesn't matter.
Me, you think I'll vote for him anyway, I'm a New York Democrat now, so why not take my vote as a given, and start campaigning for the center. Actually no, I'm one of those crazy motherfuckers who will vote for Cynthia McKinney just to prove a point. Wasting my vote? Yea right, she will appreciate it more than the chosen two. And I'll keep voting with my finger in the air until I get my third party.
dcoffee - 08/22/08 18:07
Josh The studies that I cited are compiled by Liberal outlets, but the data and the surveys is as objective as possible. This is public information, we used the same stuff in my political science classes, it's not like any of those "Fox news polls", I've seen some of those questions, very leading.
You are right that elections are much more accurate than polls at showing American preferences. But what about the people who don't vote, I have many friends who I cannot convince to go out and vote, they are straight up cynical about the whole system. I want the democrats, or somebody, to connect with that group. What are their issues?
Josh The studies that I cited are compiled by Liberal outlets, but the data and the surveys is as objective as possible. This is public information, we used the same stuff in my political science classes, it's not like any of those "Fox news polls", I've seen some of those questions, very leading.
You are right that elections are much more accurate than polls at showing American preferences. But what about the people who don't vote, I have many friends who I cannot convince to go out and vote, they are straight up cynical about the whole system. I want the democrats, or somebody, to connect with that group. What are their issues?
joshua - 08/22/08 15:23
I would suggest that national elections bear out the mood of the electorate over the years in the best fashion. Democrats have always been more effective locally than they have been nationally, and the opposite is the case for Republicans. You can imagine what I think about The Nation and Media Matters, David. Do you want me to start quoting polls from The Weekly Standard? =P
I don't think progressives can blame Republicans for their lack of effectiveness. Liberals have been bad at the political game for a long time - in 2004 I heard Lewis Black rip a 10-minute comedy piece on the subject for crying out loud. There is a kernal of truth to what you are saying, but what I'd suggest is that progressives have to do a better job of defining their positions. Just don't blame the electorate when they don't agree with you! Obama is watering it down now, which you've talked about. You are asking why - I am telling you that it is because he knows the aggressive progressive agenda you are talking about is not palatable to the American middle class that he needs to win. McCain is crushing him in the middle right now. The people aren't stupid - they know what Barack Obama stands for. Liberals for a long time have never given voters credit for thinking for themselves because, well, they lose all the time.
(e:drew) - there was nothing unconstitutional about that bill. In fact the federal version (The Born-Alive Infants Protection Act of 2002) was identical and passed with no complaint from the likes of NARAL, Ted Kennedy and other staunch pro-choice advocates. At the time Obama complained about the lack of a "neutrality clause" - when it was added he voted down the bill anyway. Incidentally it was the neutrality clause (it guaranteed that the new act wouldn't affect erosion of the right to an abortion) that guaranteed broad support. This is why it is so shocking - every pro-abortion Senator in Congress voted for a bill identical to that which Obama voted down.
When Obama ran for Senate he claimed that he voted it down because it lacked the neutrality clause. It was a lie - anyone can see in the record that the language was included in 2001 and he voted it down in three straight sessions going into 2003. You can see why it is a point of comedy for me when the Obammunists think this is a smear.
Anyway, since linking to partisan sources is now credible (only teasing, D) here is an article on the subject - :::link:::
I would suggest that national elections bear out the mood of the electorate over the years in the best fashion. Democrats have always been more effective locally than they have been nationally, and the opposite is the case for Republicans. You can imagine what I think about The Nation and Media Matters, David. Do you want me to start quoting polls from The Weekly Standard? =P
I don't think progressives can blame Republicans for their lack of effectiveness. Liberals have been bad at the political game for a long time - in 2004 I heard Lewis Black rip a 10-minute comedy piece on the subject for crying out loud. There is a kernal of truth to what you are saying, but what I'd suggest is that progressives have to do a better job of defining their positions. Just don't blame the electorate when they don't agree with you! Obama is watering it down now, which you've talked about. You are asking why - I am telling you that it is because he knows the aggressive progressive agenda you are talking about is not palatable to the American middle class that he needs to win. McCain is crushing him in the middle right now. The people aren't stupid - they know what Barack Obama stands for. Liberals for a long time have never given voters credit for thinking for themselves because, well, they lose all the time.
(e:drew) - there was nothing unconstitutional about that bill. In fact the federal version (The Born-Alive Infants Protection Act of 2002) was identical and passed with no complaint from the likes of NARAL, Ted Kennedy and other staunch pro-choice advocates. At the time Obama complained about the lack of a "neutrality clause" - when it was added he voted down the bill anyway. Incidentally it was the neutrality clause (it guaranteed that the new act wouldn't affect erosion of the right to an abortion) that guaranteed broad support. This is why it is so shocking - every pro-abortion Senator in Congress voted for a bill identical to that which Obama voted down.
When Obama ran for Senate he claimed that he voted it down because it lacked the neutrality clause. It was a lie - anyone can see in the record that the language was included in 2001 and he voted it down in three straight sessions going into 2003. You can see why it is a point of comedy for me when the Obammunists think this is a smear.
Anyway, since linking to partisan sources is now credible (only teasing, D) here is an article on the subject - :::link:::
dcoffee - 08/22/08 15:19
Sorry to ramble so much, but let me get back to this, since I don't feel like like we can define how conservative or liberal America is anyway.
When you drift toward the center you end up with a confused platform, and you don't inspire people to work hard for your campaign. Your supporters start to wonder if you really support their issue or not. Democratic campaigns have failed time and again because of their focus on the center. The republican base is inspired to support their candidate, and they bring friends to the pols. The Democratic base is sitting at home thinking that no matter how they vote nothing will change. That is the biggest problem for democrats, supporters stay home, or if you're like me, you stick to your ideals and vote Green. Democrats need people like me, and my Father-in-law if they expect to win, ever.
Sorry to ramble so much, but let me get back to this, since I don't feel like like we can define how conservative or liberal America is anyway.
When you drift toward the center you end up with a confused platform, and you don't inspire people to work hard for your campaign. Your supporters start to wonder if you really support their issue or not. Democratic campaigns have failed time and again because of their focus on the center. The republican base is inspired to support their candidate, and they bring friends to the pols. The Democratic base is sitting at home thinking that no matter how they vote nothing will change. That is the biggest problem for democrats, supporters stay home, or if you're like me, you stick to your ideals and vote Green. Democrats need people like me, and my Father-in-law if they expect to win, ever.
drew - 08/22/08 14:58
right on, d
right on, d
drew - 08/22/08 14:57
The vote was against an unnecessary, unconstitutional bill. Obama would have been wise to simply not vote, but you can hardly use this to say he was in favor of infanticide. He's against bad legislation.
The vote was against an unnecessary, unconstitutional bill. Obama would have been wise to simply not vote, but you can hardly use this to say he was in favor of infanticide. He's against bad legislation.
dcoffee - 08/22/08 14:45
I'd say the problem is that progressive values have been defined by the republicans running against them. They have been very good at creating stereotypes, coming up with catch phrases like "socialized medicine" and otherwise demonizing progressive issues. Progressives haven't had a clear platform for many years. It's not that Americans don't agree with progressives, they just don't know what we stand for. But Americans in general are progressive, I know I have to qualify that statement so.. Research/numbers :::link::: :::link::: of course it's in the liberal press but you can still read the poll questions and see numbers.
I'd say the problem is that progressive values have been defined by the republicans running against them. They have been very good at creating stereotypes, coming up with catch phrases like "socialized medicine" and otherwise demonizing progressive issues. Progressives haven't had a clear platform for many years. It's not that Americans don't agree with progressives, they just don't know what we stand for. But Americans in general are progressive, I know I have to qualify that statement so.. Research/numbers :::link::: :::link::: of course it's in the liberal press but you can still read the poll questions and see numbers.
joshua - 08/22/08 14:24
"No I don't want to give Bush my tax money, he will blow it on Halliburton." D that is ridiculous!
You are correct that Republicans have never had to bow to the center to win. That is because they don't have to - Democrats could never copy the strategy and expect to win. The reason is because conservative politics have been tried and tested, and win national elections regularly. Progressive politics do not. It could be argued that middle America relates to traditionalist values far more than they relate to "San Francisco" values. Actually, I'll go ahead and say that I'd wager that is true.
(e:drew) - do you really believe that the infanticide vote should be disregarded? They are talking about killing babies that survive abortion. He voted against a bill that would have stopped such a practice in Illinois.
:::link:::
Really. What about all of this is so misleading - did me make the vote or not? If anything is a red herring it is the neutrality clause! All of this looks fairly devastating.
"No I don't want to give Bush my tax money, he will blow it on Halliburton." D that is ridiculous!
You are correct that Republicans have never had to bow to the center to win. That is because they don't have to - Democrats could never copy the strategy and expect to win. The reason is because conservative politics have been tried and tested, and win national elections regularly. Progressive politics do not. It could be argued that middle America relates to traditionalist values far more than they relate to "San Francisco" values. Actually, I'll go ahead and say that I'd wager that is true.
(e:drew) - do you really believe that the infanticide vote should be disregarded? They are talking about killing babies that survive abortion. He voted against a bill that would have stopped such a practice in Illinois.
:::link:::
Really. What about all of this is so misleading - did me make the vote or not? If anything is a red herring it is the neutrality clause! All of this looks fairly devastating.
drew - 08/22/08 13:49
That "infanticide" vote is a pure red herring.
That "infanticide" vote is a pure red herring.
dcoffee - 08/22/08 13:48
Oh, I forgot one, "Tax = bad" "small government = good" The dominant logic is that the government is the problem. People forget that a competent and transparent government can actually solve problems, and spend our collective resources wisely. The New Deal programs are the only thing keeping Americans comfortable enough so we don't start rioting in the streets.
No I don't want to give Bush my tax money, he will blow it on Halliburton. But I think Americans would have gladly accepted a tax increase to pay for the war. Americans will give money to support worthy causes.
Oh, I forgot one, "Tax = bad" "small government = good" The dominant logic is that the government is the problem. People forget that a competent and transparent government can actually solve problems, and spend our collective resources wisely. The New Deal programs are the only thing keeping Americans comfortable enough so we don't start rioting in the streets.
No I don't want to give Bush my tax money, he will blow it on Halliburton. But I think Americans would have gladly accepted a tax increase to pay for the war. Americans will give money to support worthy causes.
dcoffee - 08/22/08 13:37
Republicans don't win elections by appeasing the center. Let's take 2004 Bush and Kerry. Did Bush wiggle at all on Gay Marriage, the War, Tax Cuts for big Business, Abortion, Healthcare? He didn't wiggle, he stuck to the issues of his supporters, and they worked hard for him. Josh you're exactly right on this, Obama does need to "convince middle America". But the term is "Convince them", not appease them, cause then you look like you either don't have faith in your own ideas, or you just don't know what the hell you're doing. Remember, Kerry was the flip-flopper.
You can convince middle America that you have the best answer, but you don't do it by suddenly watering down your idea and meeting your opponent halfway. Sure you have to do that in the Senate, but in a campaign you need to defend your own agenda, and make your opponent justify why they oppose your good ideas.
I'd say, the Republicans have gotten this far by motivating their core supporters based on hot button wedge issues. Not by drifting to the center. That's why the pundit declared "center" has moved so far toward republican dogma.
"tax cuts for big business creates jobs" "military muscle is the only way to defend ourselves" "the market will naturally take care of global warming" "Free market healthcare is the best in the world"
Sounds like the Right has done a better job of telling the center what to believe. In 2004 Democrats didn't even have a platform outside of abortion and gay marriage, Democrats need do get their populism back.
Republicans don't win elections by appeasing the center. Let's take 2004 Bush and Kerry. Did Bush wiggle at all on Gay Marriage, the War, Tax Cuts for big Business, Abortion, Healthcare? He didn't wiggle, he stuck to the issues of his supporters, and they worked hard for him. Josh you're exactly right on this, Obama does need to "convince middle America". But the term is "Convince them", not appease them, cause then you look like you either don't have faith in your own ideas, or you just don't know what the hell you're doing. Remember, Kerry was the flip-flopper.
You can convince middle America that you have the best answer, but you don't do it by suddenly watering down your idea and meeting your opponent halfway. Sure you have to do that in the Senate, but in a campaign you need to defend your own agenda, and make your opponent justify why they oppose your good ideas.
I'd say, the Republicans have gotten this far by motivating their core supporters based on hot button wedge issues. Not by drifting to the center. That's why the pundit declared "center" has moved so far toward republican dogma.
"tax cuts for big business creates jobs" "military muscle is the only way to defend ourselves" "the market will naturally take care of global warming" "Free market healthcare is the best in the world"
Sounds like the Right has done a better job of telling the center what to believe. In 2004 Democrats didn't even have a platform outside of abortion and gay marriage, Democrats need do get their populism back.
joshua - 08/22/08 13:20
It is an interesting strategy but in my view it is a loser in a general election. In primaries progressives can win all day long doing that, particularly because of the financial clout that liberal organizations and the blogosphere now wield. I truly believe that the bigwigs fear DailyKos, which is why they work so hard to keep them happy. There is some shame in that, though - if you look at the comments left by many of the readers of the site some of these people are subhuman.
I've said it before and I'll say it again - Obama will not win without winning the center, particularly this year and particularly because he is so far behind McCain in centrist core issues. Independents are going to choose the President this time around, but I don't think progressives should worry too much about what Obama is saying. Take a look at his voting record (allow me to snicker for a second - take a look at that infanticide legislation in ILL!) and you'll see that progressives have nothing to worry about. National Journal rated him the most liberal senator. He is not a centrist, but he has to convince independent voters that he's trustworthy. He's losing that battle at the moment.
It is an interesting strategy but in my view it is a loser in a general election. In primaries progressives can win all day long doing that, particularly because of the financial clout that liberal organizations and the blogosphere now wield. I truly believe that the bigwigs fear DailyKos, which is why they work so hard to keep them happy. There is some shame in that, though - if you look at the comments left by many of the readers of the site some of these people are subhuman.
I've said it before and I'll say it again - Obama will not win without winning the center, particularly this year and particularly because he is so far behind McCain in centrist core issues. Independents are going to choose the President this time around, but I don't think progressives should worry too much about what Obama is saying. Take a look at his voting record (allow me to snicker for a second - take a look at that infanticide legislation in ILL!) and you'll see that progressives have nothing to worry about. National Journal rated him the most liberal senator. He is not a centrist, but he has to convince independent voters that he's trustworthy. He's losing that battle at the moment.
drew - 08/22/08 13:02
oops. I guess I am with DCoffee, not ajay.
oops. I guess I am with DCoffee, not ajay.
drew - 08/22/08 13:01
I'm with ajay in that a politician doesn't necessarily have to move to the center if he/she can register/get out the many people who don't vote.
This is a difficult and unconventional strategy, but it is the one that won Obama the primary. I wish he had chosen to stick with it in the general election.
I'm with ajay in that a politician doesn't necessarily have to move to the center if he/she can register/get out the many people who don't vote.
This is a difficult and unconventional strategy, but it is the one that won Obama the primary. I wish he had chosen to stick with it in the general election.
paul - 08/22/08 12:15
I totally agree with you.
I totally agree with you.
ajay - 08/22/08 11:39
(e:dcoffee) , from what I've heard, there's a hardcore block of (who else but) Republican congressmen who are pro-drilling. They will not accept any clean-energy initiative unless there's more drilling.
So the choices are: throw them a bone and get them to go along, or do nothing.
Obama is willing to throw them a bone if they'll agree to some massive investment in clean energy.
Of course, the real blame lies with the fucking retards who continue to vote these assholes into office based on the "ooohh... the terrrurists are gonna git us!" argument.
Vote on policies and ideas, people. Not on the label "Republican" or "Democrat".
(e:dcoffee) , from what I've heard, there's a hardcore block of (who else but) Republican congressmen who are pro-drilling. They will not accept any clean-energy initiative unless there's more drilling.
So the choices are: throw them a bone and get them to go along, or do nothing.
Obama is willing to throw them a bone if they'll agree to some massive investment in clean energy.
Of course, the real blame lies with the fucking retards who continue to vote these assholes into office based on the "ooohh... the terrrurists are gonna git us!" argument.
Vote on policies and ideas, people. Not on the label "Republican" or "Democrat".
joshua - 08/22/08 11:26
D -
Obama is moving to the center because he has to. He needs to convince middle America, not you! Swing voters will decide the election and I think the left, once again, has generally overestimated the popularity of progressive politics. I'd hang in there and not worry if I were you. We all know if he gets elected he'll throw middle America under the bus and pursue all the liberal policies that attracted you to him in the first place.
D -
Obama is moving to the center because he has to. He needs to convince middle America, not you! Swing voters will decide the election and I think the left, once again, has generally overestimated the popularity of progressive politics. I'd hang in there and not worry if I were you. We all know if he gets elected he'll throw middle America under the bus and pursue all the liberal policies that attracted you to him in the first place.
mrmike - 08/22/08 10:36
The zingers have been always been the case of late. None of what we've heard so far in the four years of campaigning (or so it seems) is going to figure into the election which is sad. You want more than sound bites.You want to believe in some hope, that there is some reason it won't be the same old, same old. Make you want to volunteer where the election will matter.
The zingers have been always been the case of late. None of what we've heard so far in the four years of campaigning (or so it seems) is going to figure into the election which is sad. You want more than sound bites.You want to believe in some hope, that there is some reason it won't be the same old, same old. Make you want to volunteer where the election will matter.
james - 08/22/08 09:49
I have to say, i am disappointed with his post-primary performance. It is such a different game though. There is almost no discussion of policy and it seems like a contest of who can spin the best zinger. booo.
I have to say, i am disappointed with his post-primary performance. It is such a different game though. There is almost no discussion of policy and it seems like a contest of who can spin the best zinger. booo.
08/26/2008 13:42 #45460
Part 3 the ReceptionCategory: life
Wedding Part 3: Finally the reception.
The ceremony was about an hour and a half, then we did family photos for about an hour.
Me and my two girls
M and Brother, sporting his kilt. Yea, he's about 6'4"
My Fam
(e:mmtornow) Fam, notice the dog, we took him on the honeymoon too.
We missed cocktail hour, came back got a drink and then we were introduced.
The Tent
Invitation and Coffee Party Favors. I designed the invitation, seating chart and a bunch of stuff.
The Seating Chart
Officially introduced.
had a Vegetarian dinner, Lasagna! Veggies straight out of Dad's garden, and fresh bread. It was really good
The Cake. Funny thing is, we had no idea what the cake looked like. They brought it out, we moved the leaves, and cut it. Luckily the photographer got a picture for us so we could actually look at it.
It was Carrot Cake, made by a friend of the family from scratch, SO friggen tasty. We actually didn't really taste the cake till the next day either, we just had that bite on the plate here.
Oh yea, I had poison Ivy the whole time. We came up a week before the wedding to do some landscaping, there was poison ivy in the garden. I had the cream in my pocket the whole day.
Old School crew
Kenny's Speech
It was a really nice speech, Long enough to be meaningful, and touching for everyone, but not too long, not written down, and he was pretty nervous, needed some moral support from Scott, and a few drinks to get ready. It went something like this, "I've known David for a long time, and he's always been there for me...." Then he gave us both a hug, and spilled his drink all over the dance floor.
So I got a napkin and said, 'don't worry Kenny, I'm here for you man, I got your back'.
Our First Dance.
We danced to Elvis, I can't help falling in love with you. We listened to at least 50 potential first dance songs, we wanted to do Frank Sinatra or Coldplay, but this song just fit best with our story.
Dancing with Mom. We danced to Stevie Wonder, Sunshine of my Life. It was fun, my mom likes to dance.
M and Dad danced to Fleetwood Mac, Landslide. Cool song, her dad never dances, so it was a big joke getting him out on the dancefloor. Oh, and he went inside and changed into shorts after dinner, so we had to get him back into his brand new one and only suit before dancing. But he rocked the siut for the rest of the night.
View from the Tent
The Older Cousins Group
Yes, I'm dancing with my camera on, so what :)
Conga Line! I'll take that over the electric slide any day. I've been to enough weddings that when the DJ played the right song I started to Conga. It wasn't even the usual 'feelin hot hot hot' song. Fun Times
The Conga Line gets everyone on the dancefloor! I circled everyone up just in time.
Molly was on the Dancefloor 100% of the time, she only missed one song to go out to the pond for the reflection shot.
Dad in the Background Rocking out.
Candlelit Reflection in the pond
M and brother spinning
Dad was having a good ol time, we were totally surprised to see him anywhere near the dancefloor.
Dog Joins party, at about 9:30
I'm thinking the song might have been Old Time Rock and Roll. But this just makes it official, we've made it to the drunken silly part of the night. Not every wedding gets to that stage, actually some weddings start silly and drunk before the ceremony :).
The setting, on the pond, some people moved chairs around and made themselves at home next to the water. It was a great spot.
Fireworks for the end, Uncle Bob likes fireworks.
2:30am everyone left is sitting around the fire, with kegs nearby. Dad finally decides to call it a night. M still has flowers in her hair.
3:30am, M keeps talking about seeing the sun rise, I think she doesn't want it to end. The day went so well, who wants to end it. M Brother and I are the last 3 standing.
Dawn came about 5:30am, and in the light we noticed that the place was a mess! So we tidied up a bit before heading up to the cupola on top of the barn for a view of the sunrise.
Last Photo, Molly and I heading to bed at Dawn, Brother was inside doing dishes or something. Time to get some shuteye before heading east to the woods.
We enjoyed every minute.
The ceremony was about an hour and a half, then we did family photos for about an hour.
Me and my two girls
M and Brother, sporting his kilt. Yea, he's about 6'4"
My Fam
(e:mmtornow) Fam, notice the dog, we took him on the honeymoon too.
We missed cocktail hour, came back got a drink and then we were introduced.
The Tent
Invitation and Coffee Party Favors. I designed the invitation, seating chart and a bunch of stuff.
The Seating Chart
Officially introduced.
had a Vegetarian dinner, Lasagna! Veggies straight out of Dad's garden, and fresh bread. It was really good
The Cake. Funny thing is, we had no idea what the cake looked like. They brought it out, we moved the leaves, and cut it. Luckily the photographer got a picture for us so we could actually look at it.
It was Carrot Cake, made by a friend of the family from scratch, SO friggen tasty. We actually didn't really taste the cake till the next day either, we just had that bite on the plate here.
Oh yea, I had poison Ivy the whole time. We came up a week before the wedding to do some landscaping, there was poison ivy in the garden. I had the cream in my pocket the whole day.
Old School crew
Kenny's Speech
It was a really nice speech, Long enough to be meaningful, and touching for everyone, but not too long, not written down, and he was pretty nervous, needed some moral support from Scott, and a few drinks to get ready. It went something like this, "I've known David for a long time, and he's always been there for me...." Then he gave us both a hug, and spilled his drink all over the dance floor.
So I got a napkin and said, 'don't worry Kenny, I'm here for you man, I got your back'.
Our First Dance.
We danced to Elvis, I can't help falling in love with you. We listened to at least 50 potential first dance songs, we wanted to do Frank Sinatra or Coldplay, but this song just fit best with our story.
Dancing with Mom. We danced to Stevie Wonder, Sunshine of my Life. It was fun, my mom likes to dance.
M and Dad danced to Fleetwood Mac, Landslide. Cool song, her dad never dances, so it was a big joke getting him out on the dancefloor. Oh, and he went inside and changed into shorts after dinner, so we had to get him back into his brand new one and only suit before dancing. But he rocked the siut for the rest of the night.
View from the Tent
The Older Cousins Group
Yes, I'm dancing with my camera on, so what :)
Conga Line! I'll take that over the electric slide any day. I've been to enough weddings that when the DJ played the right song I started to Conga. It wasn't even the usual 'feelin hot hot hot' song. Fun Times
The Conga Line gets everyone on the dancefloor! I circled everyone up just in time.
Molly was on the Dancefloor 100% of the time, she only missed one song to go out to the pond for the reflection shot.
Dad in the Background Rocking out.
Candlelit Reflection in the pond
M and brother spinning
Dad was having a good ol time, we were totally surprised to see him anywhere near the dancefloor.
Dog Joins party, at about 9:30
I'm thinking the song might have been Old Time Rock and Roll. But this just makes it official, we've made it to the drunken silly part of the night. Not every wedding gets to that stage, actually some weddings start silly and drunk before the ceremony :).
The setting, on the pond, some people moved chairs around and made themselves at home next to the water. It was a great spot.
Fireworks for the end, Uncle Bob likes fireworks.
2:30am everyone left is sitting around the fire, with kegs nearby. Dad finally decides to call it a night. M still has flowers in her hair.
3:30am, M keeps talking about seeing the sun rise, I think she doesn't want it to end. The day went so well, who wants to end it. M Brother and I are the last 3 standing.
Dawn came about 5:30am, and in the light we noticed that the place was a mess! So we tidied up a bit before heading up to the cupola on top of the barn for a view of the sunrise.
Last Photo, Molly and I heading to bed at Dawn, Brother was inside doing dishes or something. Time to get some shuteye before heading east to the woods.
We enjoyed every minute.
dcoffee - 08/27/08 08:59
It was organic fair trade coffee of course :) "Deans Beans" Birdwatchers blend. We taste tested some before we bought 175 :)
It was organic fair trade coffee of course :) "Deans Beans" Birdwatchers blend. We taste tested some before we bought 175 :)
tinypliny - 08/27/08 08:18
Thanks for sharing, once again! The photos are so perfect! What a COOL reception!! I love that picture of (e:mmtornow) and her brother spinning. It's so funny and sweet. The invites and chart are so apt. They go beautifully with the wedding theme - the tree of life. Just out of curiosity, what kind of coffee did you guys give out? Nice concept! :)
Thanks for sharing, once again! The photos are so perfect! What a COOL reception!! I love that picture of (e:mmtornow) and her brother spinning. It's so funny and sweet. The invites and chart are so apt. They go beautifully with the wedding theme - the tree of life. Just out of curiosity, what kind of coffee did you guys give out? Nice concept! :)
metalpeter - 08/26/08 18:26
It looks like it was a great time, I love how the floor in the tent looks, oh yeah and Bonfires are all ways a good time.
It looks like it was a great time, I love how the floor in the tent looks, oh yeah and Bonfires are all ways a good time.
dcoffee - 08/26/08 16:19
Aww man, I never heard the U2 cover, there's a UB40 cover or something that's not very good. Sorry no bachelor party, my best man was in Chicago with the Navy until the day of the wedding. You wouldn't find any strippers there anyway ;)
Aww man, I never heard the U2 cover, there's a UB40 cover or something that's not very good. Sorry no bachelor party, my best man was in Chicago with the Navy until the day of the wedding. You wouldn't find any strippers there anyway ;)
carolinian - 08/26/08 15:25
When do we get to see the batchelor party pics? ;)
When do we get to see the batchelor party pics? ;)
drew - 08/26/08 14:53
Great pics. And your song choice for a first dance was good, too (although I would have used u2's cover of said song. It's awesome.)
Great pics. And your song choice for a first dance was good, too (although I would have used u2's cover of said song. It's awesome.)
joshua - 08/26/08 14:42
Well done! This is one of the more personal ceremonies I've ever seen.
Well done! This is one of the more personal ceremonies I've ever seen.
mrmike - 08/26/08 14:17
Very nice, looks like a terrific time.
Very nice, looks like a terrific time.
08/16/2008 18:26 #45343
new kittensCategory: life
Well, I wanted to upload some pictures from the reception and honeymoon first, but I can't help moving on to our new kitties.
We got them as a wedding present from our neighbor Ed. We had two cats but they both passed away over the past year or so. He used to babysit them when we went on vacation, he's like the uncle who feeds your kids candy and sends them home all wired on sugar.
We got our two kittens from the SPCA after we came home from our honeymoon. They are sisters from the same litter, born as strays in north east buffalo.
This is Ally, she's the fuzzy cuddly one. she likes to purr and dig her little nose into your arm.
This is Moosewood the silly crazy one. She likes to jump on your lap and rub her cheeks on your face.
during the day they spend much of their time trying to get my attention while I'm trying to work.
Here's a few more photos.
Enjoy!
We got them as a wedding present from our neighbor Ed. We had two cats but they both passed away over the past year or so. He used to babysit them when we went on vacation, he's like the uncle who feeds your kids candy and sends them home all wired on sugar.
We got our two kittens from the SPCA after we came home from our honeymoon. They are sisters from the same litter, born as strays in north east buffalo.
This is Ally, she's the fuzzy cuddly one. she likes to purr and dig her little nose into your arm.
This is Moosewood the silly crazy one. She likes to jump on your lap and rub her cheeks on your face.
during the day they spend much of their time trying to get my attention while I'm trying to work.
Here's a few more photos.
Missing Image ;(
Enjoy!
metalpeter - 08/17/08 11:28
Very nice shots cute little kittens. Yes lots of cats do need lots of attention but it shouldn't be to much since they have each other.
Very nice shots cute little kittens. Yes lots of cats do need lots of attention but it shouldn't be to much since they have each other.
tinypliny - 08/17/08 00:35
Pretty Kittens. :)
Pretty Kittens. :)
theecarey - 08/16/08 23:52
awhhh, kitties make my brain turn into a pile of mush. They seem awesome and already at home. Thanks for sharing the cuteness!
awhhh, kitties make my brain turn into a pile of mush. They seem awesome and already at home. Thanks for sharing the cuteness!
libertad - 08/16/08 22:10
How precious!
How precious!
jim - 08/16/08 18:47
KITTIES
KITTIES
07/23/2008 14:43 #45111
Wedding Story Part 2Category: life
I want to preface this with a little note. I know there are some people on this site who can't legally get "married" to the one they love in NYS. In Buffalo Quaker Meeting there is a 70 year old woman who has spent half her life fighting for GLBT rights. And when NYS decides to turn the corner, I know Buffalo Quaker Meeting will be one of the first to recognize marriage for everyone who is in love, and I would be happy to be invited.
Part 2: The Ceremony.
We wanted to have the ceremony outside under this huge tree in the front yard, but we weren't sure if it would happen. The forecast was calling for 70% chance of rain. You can't control the weather, but I was just hoping for 2 rain-free hours to do the ceremony outside. The reception was going to be under a huge tent, so it didn't matter if it rained later in the day, but the ceremony would be so much nicer outside under the tree in the front of the house.
When we finished taking pictures at the lake it was windy, really cloudy, and it had rained on us a little. We went back to the house for the ceremony and we both expected the chairs to be safely under the tent. We arrived at the house, and the place looked totally different than how we left it. I'll never forget pulling into the driveway and seeing all these people, gathering in the country with their fancy clothes on, walking in a hundred different directions, moving out of the way of our car as we passed. And to our surprise all the chairs were confidently set up under the tree.
Getting Everything Ready
Our un-signed Wedding Certificate
There were people everywhere! We only had about 10-15 minutes before the ceremony started. I kind of led Molly through the jungle of people so we could go upstairs and get ready, "hi... good to see you, we gotta go hide upstairs..." We paused to give grandma a kiss on the cheek but that was it. I forgot to shave that morning, so I did that. Then I stuck my head out the door to check on the microphones. We waited on the steps, for things to start. Edgar gave everyone an overview of Quaker practice and what would happen during the ceremony. Then we walked out.
We sit in calm silence until we feel moved to say our vows. People might pray, or meditate, or just quiet down their minds to bring a spiritual calm into their hearts.
Quakers would call the silence during meeting, becoming centered, listening for the light within, or waiting for god. Quakers usually worship in silence, unless they are inwardly moved to speak. We waited about 10 minutes. This must have seemed like a long time to non-quakers, but I noticed many of them dreamily gazing at me and my bride, I think they understood. When we were both calm and ready, we said our vows. The sun was out.
First Kiss
Our Vows:
"In the presence of the spirit, our friends and our family, I take thee, to be my Wife. I promise with love, to be caring and compassionate, to be supportive and patient, to show understanding and empathy, to keep an open and honest heart, and to always nurture our shared unity as your Husband from this day forward."
We wrote our vows together, and remembered everything. After saying our vows, we exchanged Rings, and signed the Marriage Certificate.
Then we looked at each other and we both wanted a hug.
That's when everyone gets teary eyed. We sit back down again, and the marriage certificate is read aloud.
For the rest of the meeting we just wait silently for people to share messages from their hearts.
The dog was interested, but he was calm too.
Our View
Under the huge canopy of shade provided by the the ancient and sturdy Maple tree.
There is no minister leading the ceremony, anyone can speak if they are moved to do so. People just raise their hand for a microphone, and share what they wish. It's unscripted, and the messages are very personal, and very spiritual. We waited about 15 minutes in silence. The first message was a song called 'Simple Gifts', it was shared by someone from Buffalo Meeting. Below is a picture of all the people who shared.
As you can see, anyone can speak, weather they're 9 years old or 90. Many people shared stories about us, or they talked about love and marriage, how happy they were for us, and how good we are for each other. Something like this ... "listening to the leaves, and the birds, and feeling the warmth of the sun, it seems as if the heavens are celebrating with us." "May your love be as broad as the branches above you, and as deep as the roots below." "We love when they do First Day School, they're so nice and fun to be around." "The bride adopted us as her grandparents when she moved to Fredonia. She would arrive late at night to sleep at our house, we woke her up, fed her, and gave her a ride to Quaker Meeting on Sunday." "the groom and I have known each other since we were born, and we did all those important things together, like climbing trees or playing with legos." .... It was realy nice.
A few More Photos from during the messages.
Bride's Family
My Mom Sharing, she's so cute.
The Scene for our big Country Wedding.
After the Meeting Ends our families and wedding party sign the Marriage certificate. Everyone at the wedding also signs the certificate during the night. The entire ceremony was wonderful, things went so well, and we got to do it outside under the tree. We are very blessed. Afterward we said hi to some of the guests, and did family portraits.
Next time, the reception. Honeymoon stuff later too.
I'm glad I'm writing all this stuff down, it's nice to remember it now, and I want to keep all the details.
Enjoy
Part 2: The Ceremony.
We wanted to have the ceremony outside under this huge tree in the front yard, but we weren't sure if it would happen. The forecast was calling for 70% chance of rain. You can't control the weather, but I was just hoping for 2 rain-free hours to do the ceremony outside. The reception was going to be under a huge tent, so it didn't matter if it rained later in the day, but the ceremony would be so much nicer outside under the tree in the front of the house.
When we finished taking pictures at the lake it was windy, really cloudy, and it had rained on us a little. We went back to the house for the ceremony and we both expected the chairs to be safely under the tent. We arrived at the house, and the place looked totally different than how we left it. I'll never forget pulling into the driveway and seeing all these people, gathering in the country with their fancy clothes on, walking in a hundred different directions, moving out of the way of our car as we passed. And to our surprise all the chairs were confidently set up under the tree.
Getting Everything Ready
Our un-signed Wedding Certificate
There were people everywhere! We only had about 10-15 minutes before the ceremony started. I kind of led Molly through the jungle of people so we could go upstairs and get ready, "hi... good to see you, we gotta go hide upstairs..." We paused to give grandma a kiss on the cheek but that was it. I forgot to shave that morning, so I did that. Then I stuck my head out the door to check on the microphones. We waited on the steps, for things to start. Edgar gave everyone an overview of Quaker practice and what would happen during the ceremony. Then we walked out.
We sit in calm silence until we feel moved to say our vows. People might pray, or meditate, or just quiet down their minds to bring a spiritual calm into their hearts.
Quakers would call the silence during meeting, becoming centered, listening for the light within, or waiting for god. Quakers usually worship in silence, unless they are inwardly moved to speak. We waited about 10 minutes. This must have seemed like a long time to non-quakers, but I noticed many of them dreamily gazing at me and my bride, I think they understood. When we were both calm and ready, we said our vows. The sun was out.
First Kiss
Our Vows:
"In the presence of the spirit, our friends and our family, I take thee, to be my Wife. I promise with love, to be caring and compassionate, to be supportive and patient, to show understanding and empathy, to keep an open and honest heart, and to always nurture our shared unity as your Husband from this day forward."
We wrote our vows together, and remembered everything. After saying our vows, we exchanged Rings, and signed the Marriage Certificate.
Then we looked at each other and we both wanted a hug.
That's when everyone gets teary eyed. We sit back down again, and the marriage certificate is read aloud.
For the rest of the meeting we just wait silently for people to share messages from their hearts.
The dog was interested, but he was calm too.
Our View
Under the huge canopy of shade provided by the the ancient and sturdy Maple tree.
There is no minister leading the ceremony, anyone can speak if they are moved to do so. People just raise their hand for a microphone, and share what they wish. It's unscripted, and the messages are very personal, and very spiritual. We waited about 15 minutes in silence. The first message was a song called 'Simple Gifts', it was shared by someone from Buffalo Meeting. Below is a picture of all the people who shared.
As you can see, anyone can speak, weather they're 9 years old or 90. Many people shared stories about us, or they talked about love and marriage, how happy they were for us, and how good we are for each other. Something like this ... "listening to the leaves, and the birds, and feeling the warmth of the sun, it seems as if the heavens are celebrating with us." "May your love be as broad as the branches above you, and as deep as the roots below." "We love when they do First Day School, they're so nice and fun to be around." "The bride adopted us as her grandparents when she moved to Fredonia. She would arrive late at night to sleep at our house, we woke her up, fed her, and gave her a ride to Quaker Meeting on Sunday." "the groom and I have known each other since we were born, and we did all those important things together, like climbing trees or playing with legos." .... It was realy nice.
A few More Photos from during the messages.
Bride's Family
My Mom Sharing, she's so cute.
The Scene for our big Country Wedding.
After the Meeting Ends our families and wedding party sign the Marriage certificate. Everyone at the wedding also signs the certificate during the night. The entire ceremony was wonderful, things went so well, and we got to do it outside under the tree. We are very blessed. Afterward we said hi to some of the guests, and did family portraits.
Next time, the reception. Honeymoon stuff later too.
I'm glad I'm writing all this stuff down, it's nice to remember it now, and I want to keep all the details.
Enjoy
dcoffee - 07/24/08 20:21
I'm glad you guys can enjoy this too.
to answer paul's question, I'm not a quaker by birth, but my wife is. There aren't many Quakers around, Buffalo Meeting has like 150 members but about 20-30 attend each week. Orchard park has about 15-20 that attend. There are a lot more in Pennsylvania. And Quakers do play a pretty bad-ass role in history, with abolition and civil rights. And they're not like Amish people with buggies and whatnot. They're just a compassionate group of people, trying to live peacefully and coexist with life. They don't have have any promises or ritual, or dogma. Meeting is like a moment of silence, one that gets comfortable, and lasts for a while. Growing up I was one of those Christmas and Easter type Catholics, we went to the OLV Basilica, I enjoyed some things about church, my mom goes there every week now. I was always a spiritual kind of person. In college I just happened to meet my wife who was a Quaker, I found they fit very well for me. You don't have to be a Quaker to marry one, but I did become a member in the spring.
Quaker weddings are so flexible, you kind of have to make up some things as you go along, but that just makes it more personal. And the open microphone is great, i want to write down more of it cause I don't have any recordings.
Heidi, it's so weird working in the wedding business and then doing it for yourself.
Tiny, One thing I knew for sure, as a photographer, the bride should not wear a strapless dress :) They squeeze the brides body, and things hang out, even on skinny girls, trust me, I have to edit their photos. Unfortunately 90% of the dresses for sale are strapless, (e:mmtornow) had 3 choices, she tried it on in the store and ordered the same one on ebay anyway :) I'm also glad you can identify with the ceremony, it's hard to describe, but people are connected somehow, and the silence is very moving. The wedding certificate is longer, it had room for 175 names, it's a pretty big thing to have framed. Not sure about the flowers on top we didn't choose the type of flower, just the color. I'm pretty sure they are a real flower in nature.
Josh, it was great to hear people speak during the ceremony, I forgot to mention this, the first non-quaker to speak was the boy in the red shirt, my 17 year old cousin, he said something like, "i know marriage doesen't work out some times, for whatever reason, but I hope the two of you stay married and love eachother for a long time." Meeting actually went over about 20 minutes, people enjoyed the occasion.
I'm glad you guys can enjoy this too.
to answer paul's question, I'm not a quaker by birth, but my wife is. There aren't many Quakers around, Buffalo Meeting has like 150 members but about 20-30 attend each week. Orchard park has about 15-20 that attend. There are a lot more in Pennsylvania. And Quakers do play a pretty bad-ass role in history, with abolition and civil rights. And they're not like Amish people with buggies and whatnot. They're just a compassionate group of people, trying to live peacefully and coexist with life. They don't have have any promises or ritual, or dogma. Meeting is like a moment of silence, one that gets comfortable, and lasts for a while. Growing up I was one of those Christmas and Easter type Catholics, we went to the OLV Basilica, I enjoyed some things about church, my mom goes there every week now. I was always a spiritual kind of person. In college I just happened to meet my wife who was a Quaker, I found they fit very well for me. You don't have to be a Quaker to marry one, but I did become a member in the spring.
Quaker weddings are so flexible, you kind of have to make up some things as you go along, but that just makes it more personal. And the open microphone is great, i want to write down more of it cause I don't have any recordings.
Heidi, it's so weird working in the wedding business and then doing it for yourself.
Tiny, One thing I knew for sure, as a photographer, the bride should not wear a strapless dress :) They squeeze the brides body, and things hang out, even on skinny girls, trust me, I have to edit their photos. Unfortunately 90% of the dresses for sale are strapless, (e:mmtornow) had 3 choices, she tried it on in the store and ordered the same one on ebay anyway :) I'm also glad you can identify with the ceremony, it's hard to describe, but people are connected somehow, and the silence is very moving. The wedding certificate is longer, it had room for 175 names, it's a pretty big thing to have framed. Not sure about the flowers on top we didn't choose the type of flower, just the color. I'm pretty sure they are a real flower in nature.
Josh, it was great to hear people speak during the ceremony, I forgot to mention this, the first non-quaker to speak was the boy in the red shirt, my 17 year old cousin, he said something like, "i know marriage doesen't work out some times, for whatever reason, but I hope the two of you stay married and love eachother for a long time." Meeting actually went over about 20 minutes, people enjoyed the occasion.
joshua - 07/24/08 09:50
D - thanks for taking the time to share this occasion with us. This is is a way of doing it that seems so personal and beautiful - if my family and friends stood up individually to say things like that about me and my new wife, I don't know if I could hold back tears. Talk about meaningful!
D - thanks for taking the time to share this occasion with us. This is is a way of doing it that seems so personal and beautiful - if my family and friends stood up individually to say things like that about me and my new wife, I don't know if I could hold back tears. Talk about meaningful!
paul - 07/24/08 00:11
Seriously, your ceremony sounds awesome and looks picture perfect. As for the Quaker thing, did you grow up quaker - I never met a quaker before - I kind of thought it was a historical movement.
Seriously, your ceremony sounds awesome and looks picture perfect. As for the Quaker thing, did you grow up quaker - I never met a quaker before - I kind of thought it was a historical movement.
heidi - 07/23/08 23:03
Once upon a time, I worked for a catering company that did oodles of wedding receptions. You can tell so much about people from their weddings & receptions... yours seems to have been a wonderful, joyous, loving occasion that reflects the grace and joy of your lives. It reminded me of my best friend's wedding two years ago, also very non-traditional, outside, by a lake. I teared all through hers and again while reading about yours. Thank you for sharing!
Once upon a time, I worked for a catering company that did oodles of wedding receptions. You can tell so much about people from their weddings & receptions... yours seems to have been a wonderful, joyous, loving occasion that reflects the grace and joy of your lives. It reminded me of my best friend's wedding two years ago, also very non-traditional, outside, by a lake. I teared all through hers and again while reading about yours. Thank you for sharing!
tinypliny - 07/23/08 21:54
Thanks so much for sharing with (e:strip)! Loved every minute of it!
Are those forget-me-nots on the top of the wedding certificate? They are pretty! Just curious though, did your certificate run into several pages? Such a cool concept. Imagine if someone who would become an extremely famous celebrity in the future, came to your wedding and signed it! :)
I am in love with (e:mmtornow)'s gown. When you are walking out, it has quietly assumed a life of its own and gives an ethereal dimension to the walk with a little twirl and flow. :) I also like the part about sitting in calm and getting acquainted mentally with your audience, your witnesses and yourself before you say what your heart knows. There is something so peaceful in connecting with people whom you are going to speak to. I know this is probably a somewhat unrelated experience but somehow I find it easier to express myself and speak clearly if I have made a kind of mental contact with my audience/patients/students/professors after a moment of silent communication. When I don't take this minute, invariably I sound flustered, indifferent, bored, impatient, snobbish or outright rude. The silent communion is a brilliant idea. :)
As I look at your wedding, I think back to a zillion of my cousins' and friends' weddings back home. Some were nightmares, some downright hilarious, some drunken revelries, dance manias, suffocating rituals, some all-night eating binges, some pompous shows of wealth, some five-minute court-signings (followed by one of the above) and a few were outright weird. I think I like your wedding the best. I need to cc the link to your journal entry to my whole crazy clan and broadcast across the pond and some mountains, now. ;-) I would have loved to be that woman sitting in the grass with her shoes off and enjoying it all in the best way possible. `
Totally flippant comment, but your sideburns rock! I have been trying to get my brother to grow them out. :)
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your story! If you see a spike in your views over the next couple months, it's probably me reloading the pictures to look at them all over again. Thank you! :^D
Thanks so much for sharing with (e:strip)! Loved every minute of it!
Are those forget-me-nots on the top of the wedding certificate? They are pretty! Just curious though, did your certificate run into several pages? Such a cool concept. Imagine if someone who would become an extremely famous celebrity in the future, came to your wedding and signed it! :)
I am in love with (e:mmtornow)'s gown. When you are walking out, it has quietly assumed a life of its own and gives an ethereal dimension to the walk with a little twirl and flow. :) I also like the part about sitting in calm and getting acquainted mentally with your audience, your witnesses and yourself before you say what your heart knows. There is something so peaceful in connecting with people whom you are going to speak to. I know this is probably a somewhat unrelated experience but somehow I find it easier to express myself and speak clearly if I have made a kind of mental contact with my audience/patients/students/professors after a moment of silent communication. When I don't take this minute, invariably I sound flustered, indifferent, bored, impatient, snobbish or outright rude. The silent communion is a brilliant idea. :)
As I look at your wedding, I think back to a zillion of my cousins' and friends' weddings back home. Some were nightmares, some downright hilarious, some drunken revelries, dance manias, suffocating rituals, some all-night eating binges, some pompous shows of wealth, some five-minute court-signings (followed by one of the above) and a few were outright weird. I think I like your wedding the best. I need to cc the link to your journal entry to my whole crazy clan and broadcast across the pond and some mountains, now. ;-) I would have loved to be that woman sitting in the grass with her shoes off and enjoying it all in the best way possible. `
Totally flippant comment, but your sideburns rock! I have been trying to get my brother to grow them out. :)
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your story! If you see a spike in your views over the next couple months, it's probably me reloading the pictures to look at them all over again. Thank you! :^D
boxerboi - 07/23/08 16:38
congratulations! your ceremony looked amazing
congratulations! your ceremony looked amazing
dcoffee - 07/23/08 16:15
I should correct that, traditional weddings of many faiths can be impersonal, not just Christian.
I should correct that, traditional weddings of many faiths can be impersonal, not just Christian.
dcoffee - 07/23/08 15:58
hehe, Drew, I hear your weddings are wonderful, I'd love to photograph one! I know you would want the ceremony to be personal for the bride and groom, and that's what's missing from the majority of cristian weddings I've been to.
I've photographed over 100 weddings, Jewish, Catholic, Indian, justice of the peace, etc. Planning my own, I had to keep asking myself "can I see myself there, and does it feel natural?" I had to slowly pry my head out of the traditional, cause it didn't work for me. I love working at the Statler Towers, and photographing in beautiful cathedrals, but I couldn't see myself in it. It's worth it to spend time making it your own.
hehe, Drew, I hear your weddings are wonderful, I'd love to photograph one! I know you would want the ceremony to be personal for the bride and groom, and that's what's missing from the majority of cristian weddings I've been to.
I've photographed over 100 weddings, Jewish, Catholic, Indian, justice of the peace, etc. Planning my own, I had to keep asking myself "can I see myself there, and does it feel natural?" I had to slowly pry my head out of the traditional, cause it didn't work for me. I love working at the Statler Towers, and photographing in beautiful cathedrals, but I couldn't see myself in it. It's worth it to spend time making it your own.
drew - 07/23/08 15:01
You need to stop spreading the word about how great Quaker weddings are. I won't have as much work!
Just kidding, of course.
You need to stop spreading the word about how great Quaker weddings are. I won't have as much work!
Just kidding, of course.
mrmike - 07/23/08 14:51
Very cool, seems more genuine than some by the book ceremonies, more yours than from some etiquette book
Very cool, seems more genuine than some by the book ceremonies, more yours than from some etiquette book
jason - 07/23/08 14:50
I really enjoyed this post. Thanks for sharing with us. I think about getting married and the big party and the big ceremony and I think I would be miserable!!! This seems so much more natural.
I really enjoyed this post. Thanks for sharing with us. I think about getting married and the big party and the big ceremony and I think I would be miserable!!! This seems so much more natural.
I was in SUNY Fredonia, and my last year there was a big expense increase, and I remember a lot of grumbling about Pataki. I'm pretty offended that the Fed hasn't lowered interest rates on student loans though.
Libertad: I voted for Obama once, in the primary. And because of the stupid electoral college I know NYS is a Blue state, and I don't need to fear helping John McCain by voting for an Independent party. I view an Obama presidency as a bold step in the right direction, but it won't magically fix everything, people need to stay alert and involved to make sure the government makes the changes we need. He has a good platform with a lot of consensus, but I know it will be a lot tougher to work out the details in Washington. If we want any of these promises to come true, we need to fight for them, and call our congress people to make sure they vote the way we need them to. I guess I'd say I love Cynthia McKinney, and I always vote Independent Party, but Obama has a chance at my vote.
While it's true that the trustees say how much tuition will increase, they still are subject to the limits which the state legislature will impose on them financially through state aid. The politicians still dictate what that amount will be.
So while trustees can say they want a 1000 increase, if the state doesn't give them the money they want to run the SUNY system they have to find another avenue, which was the case when I was in college. Anyone remember the explosion in fees in the late 90's?
dcoffee--Does this journal reinforce your support for Mckinney or are you going back to Obama?
Josh-- consider the conservative influence on SUNY and how much tuition has gone up under Pataki's leadership.
"Both Mr. Cuomo and Mr. Pataki, like many governors, appointed like-minded trustees. Yet Mr. Cuomo's appointees fought with him to defend the university from cuts. Mr. Pataki's have not. He chose trustees who said they wanted to be change agents, not merely guardians of Mr. Rockefeller's SUNY." source :::link:::
Josh: Biden was very good, I've always liked him, everyone's got some flaws, but he's a genuine guy.
About the rising college costs, I found out this tidbit while researching refinancing my college loan. The interest rates on college loans have steadily gone up since I graduated, they're around 8% now. At a time when the other interest rates are dropping, and you need a college education more than ever, the federal government has in fact made it more costly to get a loan. People who don't have to borrow can be mad at the universities, but if you're like most people shrinking federal grants and higher interest rates are your biggest problem.
I hope democrats have the confidence to stick to their guns this time around, and take an example from their progressive base. And I hope the progressive base considers November the beginning of their movement instead of the culmination. I'd say the reason Democrats fold once elected is the corrupt election system and the influence of private dollars.
Jason: the bottom up idea is key. I give a hell yea to that one. I agree with that on many levels, including states rights, states should be a mini laboratory for policy testing. And from the perspective of American democracy in general. Nothing starts at the top.
I also think progressives are digging in for the long haul, finally. No election will solve our problems, it takes our effort, and the people can never take their eye off the government. and for me, participatory democracy is more important than any party or election.
Thanks D. You know what, I risk trouble at home for this, but there is something I have to admit I admire about the progressive movement, and this is something I think everyone can agree on as it is pretty easy to observe.
I am NOT talking about the politicians here, rather normal folks like you and I.
Progressives embrace the "bottom to top" view of how ideas should be put into action. They are eager to roll up their sleeves and work hard towards the goal of not only implementing their solutions, but also trying to get people to sway in their direction.
Conservatives, and I'm telling you it's one of the reasons I left the party, WILL NOT behave this way. No, if you are not on the wing, it isn't that they have to work harder to earn votes. They don't want to roll up their sleeves. They expect that they can do NOTHING, and that everyone else in the R umbrella has to kiss their ring and capitulate in every circumstance because they're just that fucking important. Screw that!!!
I thought Clinton was a stiff - I felt it was half-hearted. Biden though, he was a spectacle. He was a brilliant entertainer and drove home a lot of solid points. Biden is the only one with the guts and the cred to be able to attack John McCain on issues that Obama is weak on. My only nitpicking this time was his mentioning of rising college costs. Who is responsible for that? It sure as hell isn't the GOP or GWB! Don't make me use the "L" word referring to those who have administrated colleges for eons.
Otherwise though, looking at it from a broad perspective, I think the convention has been a success. It will be interesting to see what Barack Obama says - I'll be taking notes.
D you mention something I've read from you before - that progressives have to stand by their ideas. I don't think you can force the GOP to debate on progressive terms, ever... they don't have to and have never had to. On the other hand though, progressive politicians need to stick to their guns more. Say what you believe and stand behind it! I think people like yourself, and other regular folks who are progressives do stick with their guns but the politicians have not. I have an incredibly cynical reason why (when they do, they lose, which is why the only two-term Democrat in the last few decades was a centrist) but it is deeper than that. If progressives can't win this one, they never will.
Jason, you bring up a lot of good points. I think tonight you will hear a lot more specifics about what Barrack Obama would do as president. So far, there's been a lot of "I know what you're going through" Tonight I'm expecting a lot of "Here's how we're going to fix it".
I also understand that Obama has to build on the most popular elements of the Democratic platform. I still think progressives have to stand by their ideas, and make sure we define the debate, and force republicans to address our terms. But I also see that change is going to happen step by step. We try the ideas, succeed, and build on it next year. It's going to take dedication and time to get there. You can't really outlaw Health insurance companies overnight,or fix the election system quick. It's up to people to keep the pressure on, and it's up to politicians to build consensus and take the laws one step forward.
In general I think the speeches I've seen have been good, at least as far as character witnesses are concerned. Democratics are experts at playing on emotions and tugging at heart strings. I've been entertained, and that isn't a criticism this time. I trust Biden more than I trust Obama, actually, when it comes to being a wise and prudent leader, but fresh blood is needed I suppose, and is more compatible with the party message.
The one criticism I heard on BBC Radio last night was that there hasn't been a whole lot of meat to chew on. It's been, oh, America is in trouble, America is terrible, McSame, 4 more years of Bush....ad nauseum. What about policy? I agree with this criticism, and I'm hopeful (probably foolishly so) that the king of soaring rhetoric will give us more when he speaks tonight.
I think that the Obama campaign is going to be only as Progressive as they believe is acceptable to moderates and independents who are going to decide the race. He has spoken many times about UHC, Iraq Withdrawal, Energy Independence, Infrastructure Development...things you've listed in your journal. There are elements of the progressive faction that are well represented.
However, Obama's campaign is savvy enough to know that running as an inflexible ideologue will result in failure. Not even the progressive vehicle for power, the Democratic Party, accepted the only "real" principled left winger Kucinich. He called himself the "center" of the party which turned out to be false. Clearly, the party and the nation don't want a hard core progressive, but that doesn't mean that the whole of the ideology will be scrapped. You win some and you lose some, and you fight on.