On August 3rd, I sat in the back seat of a car with a slight breeze and the sun shining through the trees. I waited my cue to begin. I stepped out of the car, my heart started fluttering and then pounding in my chest. I had been so calm and clear this whole time. Now that I could see the entrance way, I could see people shuffling, and could hear the music, it was all coming together. In that moment I thought I would lose my footing. 

Walking into the opening to the garden alone, and seeing Fredrik standing half way to greet me was a moment in itself. I wonder if he could feel my arms shaking or how I didn’t notice anything around me for keeping track of my feet. 

The setting was beautiful; straight out of a fairytale. Bees buzzing about, flowers dancing in the breeze, and the sun shining down. Fredrik’s vows were sweet, funny, and unexpecting. Thank goodness for the break in between for the Swedish translation for me to gather my thoughts and attempt to steady my hands. We both decided to have our vows written. Thank goodness for that. I began to read my vows, 1st line, then 2nd line, when I looked up into his eyes, I lost all ability to hold “it” together. I started to lose my voice and tears swelled in my eyes. I took a breath…then hearing Mathias translate my 2 lines, remembered that I would need to pause. I was able to regroup … just a little. 

My vows came from my heart and soul. Fredrik looked me in the eyes and into my heart. I could hear my sister behind me sniffle…and in suit my mother. We made it through our vows which seemed to be an eternity. Exchanged our rings and kissed. It was amazing. 

We walked away to the theme song from Top Gun. Erin suggested it. Had no real meaning to us, just to be funny and silly. We walked around the garden talking and holding hands. Then realized we might want to go back to our guests who were waiting with a toast. 

All in all, our wedding was a whirlwind planned, a last minute prep, and a night before rehearsal. But in actuality…was the most magical and wonderful day I will never forget! 

Marriage is a door which looks out upon a beautiful view. As that door is opened and the horizon unfolds before you, know that nothing is sweeter than the warmth of one hand within another.— Collin McCarty

Next Thursday, we board a plane and will fly over 4,000 miles around the world to Sweden. On August 3rd, we will stand here, at this colony house, built by Fredrik, Brother, and Father, and say our vows and become husband and wife! 

Beside me, will be my 2 best friends, my Mother and Sister. Fredrik will have his Father and Brother. Gathered around with love and support will be family and friends. Two hearts and families brought together under a Swedish Sky and surrounded by God’s beautiful flowers. 

I couldn’t imagine a better setting, place, and company. I’m blessed beyond belief and the luckiest girl! 

J

I am more and more excited about our 2nd Sweden trip this Summer every day.

Fredrik’s Grandmother gave me a Traditional  Dala Horse 2 years ago. I look forward to walking around Sweden and collecting just a few more! Not to mention…a suitcase full of memories!

(via thingssheloves)

Fredrik took me to Sweden last year to visit his family and to attend his friend’s wedding. It was the first time I had ever left the country. I was nervous, excited, scared, and antsy! The flights there were from a nightmare! Once we landed, his parents picked us up. I was exhausted from ZERO sleep…it was 2:30pm when we arrived. Just the middle of the day! When we arrived at their summer house…I was beside myself with amazement! NEVER had I ever seen such simple beauty. 

I was the typical tourist. Big camera, wide eyes, and head turning! I took over 1400 pictures that trip. Organized them by day! Finishing the album was bittersweet. That meant that the trip was over. Completed. Now the book would sit comfy on a shelf. Maybe to be pulled out randomly but mainly to collect dust. 

I am saving for the next trip. I miss the family in Sweden, the sites, the smells, and the language! I look forward to stamping my passport!