I got a money tree!!

Seriously, I don't even know why I am working the week before my wedding. I am a complete waste of space.

On Tuesday, my last day of work before preparing for wedded bliss, I was only about 15 percent there. There was a story meeting scheduled to 2 p.m., and I had nothing of substance to contribute, unless my editor wanted stories about flower choices, alterations, and wrapping attendant gifts while picking up placecards.

My co-workers Kevin and Courtney and my girl Lynda kindly took me out of the building for a nice lunch at the deli, where I had a turkey burger and contemplated my last few days as a single woman. I asked Kevin if I should just skip the story meeting, cause really, what the hell was the point? I'm a space cadet.

We came back, and Courtney awkwardly came over to my cubicle.

"Um, I need to talk to you about something," she said. "Over here."

So I followed her to sports, wondering what the hell was going on.

"Um, I don't have anything to talk about," she said. "Lyn just wanted me to get you out. She's planning something I think."

Oh man.

So, I did the natural time waster. I went to my co-worker Diane's desk, where I knew I would gab for at least 10 minutes. Finally, Lyn came over and kinda winked and nodded at Courtney.

Guess I have to act surprised.

Lo and behold, there was no "story meeting." There was, however, what appeared to be a party - for me! A decorated table, a cake made by Lyn, card and MONEY TREE!!

As in a tree, with real money hanging off of it!! Lots of money! Oh wow, these do exist!!

That was a very nice surprise. I was totally blown away. It was a very nice sendoff. And now, Ed and I are flush with drink tip cash for the honeymoon ... with plenty left over.