have kindly sponsored

In life there are compromises. In weddings there are serious negotiations, U.N.-like committee meetings, and even acts of coercion and espionage. The order from the the big house is that everyone must cut their lists by a third in order to fight, er fit, into the one reception hall in Detroit we found that my family, Gareth and I all like.

As an act of good faith, Gareth and I have decided to be the first to determine the hierarchy of all our friends. We managed if you believe it, fairly easily by keeping almost everyone, but cutting out guests for any one without a girlfriend, boyfriend, wife or husband. Our friends are pretty understanding about this, especially since they are all friends with one another and most were not planning on bringing a guest. And plus, most importantly all our friends will be able to come.

So serious excess stress has been averted as I start back into my teaching practice this week. So far it has gone okay and I am feeling pretty confident. Well if it is possible to feel both nervous and confident at the same time, that is the situation.

Far from sulking about any of the above, I have been enjoying myself thoroughly since I have been home. My friends will use any excuse to go out and celebrate and so, as ridiculous as it may sound since I was not gone even three weeks, my return was the catalyst of a party and a really fantastic meal with Gareth and two of my flat mates. Almost makes me want to go home again just to return.

10 January 2000,

Stacie Lewis