I guess I didnt realize to the full extent how many jaded, cynical guys and gals we have on this board when it comes to marraige. Don't get me wrong, I've never been in a hurry to get hitched and I don't have a one track mind about it. Reading people's responses is just kinda depressing. It's crazy how far we seem to have come from our parents or grandparents generation. I mean, living together in an unwedded state like Schmuck and I do would have been unheard-of when my Nana and Papa were dating. She seemed somewhat uncomfortable and disappointed that we were living together and it was kind of a reality check to me. I explained to her that these days it's just kinda commonplace to do such a thing and many people don't think anything of it. On the other hand, the OP is about to make an important commitment to the woman he loves and I think comments like 'Getting married is failboat' are inappropriate. Maybe just congratulate the guy and give him a recommendation of where to buy a ring! I know...it's an online forum and people want to say whatever they feel....