>Let's just cut to the chase, shall we? To avoid the uncomfortable downcast eyes and awkward shuffling feet, we'll just come right out and tell you that YES! We Are Registered! But you say, "You're kidding, right? Really now, what could a couple of shacked-up, middle-aged adults possibly need?" Well, actually, you'd be surprised. Take our plates, for example. We have no less than 6 different kinds accrued over time from various locales. The Stansbury's cast-offs, out of a Goodwill box at Capitol Hill's The Biltmore, old Safeway (a store we've not patronized in years) special-of-the-day, etc. And the flatware's not too much better. And so on. So whereas we're certainly not greedy, selfish, materialistic consumers, we would be most grateful for some of the nicer things life has to offer. And if that means a matching set of sheets and pillowcases sans threadbare pills, then we're just not above asking for it at this time. Thanks for the consideration!

>You'll also note that we're not including those handy, little registry announcement cards in our wedding invitations because to do so would be grossly inappropriate and beyond well-mannered reproach. [There will be plenty of other tackiness at the event itself, so no worries there.]

>Regard this web site technology as the new 'word-of-mouth' of old.

>We take BuyBlue* (www.buyblue.org ) very seriously and would encourage you to keep this in mind if you're being so sweet as to gift us. We've listed at Bed, Bath & Beyond and Crate & Barrel. However, Costco, Overstock.com, Neiman Marcus and Linen & Things all have stellar political and social reputations according to this site. Another thought is that you consider a donation in our name to either of these outstanding organizations: Best Friends Animal Society ( http://www.bestfriends.org/ ) and/or PETA ( http://www.peta.org/ )

>*RIP buyblue.org
You were a wise and trusted friend helping to give us little people some voice over political corruption, economic disparity and environmental concerns. We are so very sad to see you go, but you do live on in our empowered and enlightened hearts.

>Registering seems such an odd activity and we're a bit conflicted. But many recently married friends remind us that it's not presumptuous or rude. We're not 'giftgrubbinggreedies', but rather offer mere suggestions if you're so inclined.

>As cliche as it sounds- Your PRESENCE are the true presents.