While I formally introduced myself over the weekend, I figured today would be a good day to share a little more.

First, I like to use smileys (or is it smilies?)
When I sign-off email, I use
)
I also sign letters to patients and outgoing faxes with a smile.
Anyway....
We have known each other since Jun/Jul '01, but didn't upgrade our friendship until Jan '08 (although some would say we had an "unofficial" upgrade before that time). We've been living together since Sept '08 (much to his dad's dismay).
We are newly engaged, but have not made a formal announcement. My mom, sister, a few friends, a co-worker, and a recently retired co-worker know. Oh, and FI told one of his aunties (via email), and is counting on her to tell his dad. If his mom was alive, he would of told her first (and she would have told his dad). We are waiting to see what happens when his auntie tells his dad. We think it will be ok... apparently his dad told his auntie at the beginning of this year we need to get married. Also, the last time FI and his dad had a discussion that involved me as a topic (spring this year), his dad told him flat out... we had to get married or break up.
Back to happy stuff...
Instead of diamond engagement ring, it is a sapphire, but there are micropavé set diamonds in the band (which is platinum). Currently, my ring is being created. It is expected to be done by the weekend before T-giving.
I'm am wondering if I can wear it when I get it (and we have made a formal announcement) or if I have to wait until the formal engagement ceremony? Does it matter? I think FI plans to ask his auntie.
I'm overwhelmed with the planning process. I had always figured *if* I got married, it would be something low key. I have accepted this won't be the case, but it's still overwhelming to consider. Yet, I know FI's aunties are gonna go all crazy on us in terms of the planning -- since his mom is deceased, his father is the patriarch, and he's *finally* getting married! I'm tryin' to brace myself for it.
Ok, that's it for now.
Cheers!

Oh, yeah.... P.S. We live in the Bay Area, but are planning to marry in Tucson, AZ (where I grew up). FI thinks his dad won't like that.... FI grew up in Houston, TX where his dad continues to reside.