7. NATURE RED IN TOOTH AND CLAW.

It's from a poem, okay? but that's where you're going to be. Don't fantasize about how "romantic" place is; go take a look. Think realistically about beer bottles and cans on beach; getting lawn mowed and weeded; planting seasonal flowers; bugs, flies, snakes and spiders; sounds of barking dogs and (uninvited) children; or, for that matter these days, drugs dealers in park.

Have a visit with your eyes open. Then do what you need to do, or resolve it's "good enough" and don't worry. The world of nature isn't going to shut down just because it's your wedding.

8. SAFETY ... ALL AGES

You're in love. You're planning your big day. However, you must limit things you have to worry about if you're going to enjoy yourself. A celebration in a park by a lake would be nice, or by pool at your aunt's mansion, or even at beach, but in actuality, if there are going to be children there, and drinking, there’s also going to be chance for a real tragedy.

Which brings up - all ages will likely be there, and must be considered. Can you really picture your great-grandmother standing in surf with her hair blowing, stepping over man-o-wars while picking sand out of her teeth … for long? Can kiddos go that long without a restroom? Many people can't stand up for a long time; others need protection from extreme heat and cold.

9. THE FOOD.

Can you say “food poisoning?” Mayonnaise (and food items with that as an ingredient) can't sit out in hot sun for more than an hour or so. Avoid perishable dishes. Wind can make it hard to get grill lit. Ice cream won't do when it's 90 degrees outside, nor will hot hors d'eouvres last long when it's 50 degrees outside.

10. THE SUN, THE MOON AND THE STARS.

Yes, he promised you that … and you'll be promising it to your guests, one way or another. Keep in mind sun moves through sky, and plan your event (and photographs) accordingly. One of most beautiful weddings I went to was held on deck of a hillside lodge, with ceremony ending just as sun was setting. Now THAT was an outdoor wedding!

Living History” is a surprisingly rich source of information on surviving an affair. Women will find in Hillary Clinton a role model for wives facing similar marital problems. Her candid account of Clinton-Lewinsky affair answers many of questions in public mind, such as : Why didn’t Mrs. Clinton leave her husband? What made her decide to stay with him and keep their marriage intact? How did she cope with emotional trauma? What helped her overcome pain of betrayal?

“Living History” provides an intensely intimate look at one woman’s reaction to her husband’s affair. By examining factors that contributed to survival of Clinton marriage, perhaps other marriages can be saved. “Living History” is worthwhile reading for any woman whose husband is engaged in an extramarital affair.

© 2004 Ruth Houston All rights reserved.