Thursday, March 05, 2009

Three Years

Three years ago today, I was standing in a little hilltop chapel saying my vows to a wonderful man. There were mountain views out of the doors on three sides and cows could be heard moo-ing during the ceremony.



I walked down the aisle (or actually kind of ran - I was so nervous) to Goreki by Lamb. The lyrics of the song really spoke to us both. My dress was red, the colour of celebration and we both wore pieces taken from a vintage wedding kimono, a symbol of the new life we were about to embark upon together. The kimono was a very generous gift from a dear friend. The kimono had been embroidered with white cranes, a symbol we used with the invites and through the wedding.

In Japanese culture the crane not only symbolises peace and a long life, but also a happy marriage. The cranes mate for life and are devoted to their partners throughout the seasons. They work together to build the nest and share the responsibility of raising their young.

The ceremony was simple but heartfelt and witnessed by wonderful friends and family. We were even showered by origami crane confetti, all folded by my wonderful friends who flew over from Japan to celebrate the day with us.

The reception was casual with lots of delicious finger foods....


... and even some Sakura sparkling wine (my own creation).


A week after the wedding, as newlyweds, we moved to Japan together. The last three years have been filled with ups and downs, learning, growing, adventure and travel, challenges and getting to know and love each other more deeply. Now, three years on, we are eagerly (and very nervously) awaiting the arrival of our first child and preparing for a new life back in Australia together.

Wayne, thank you for the last three wonderful years. I love you.

20 comments:

CurlyPops said...

Happy Anniversary. That is just so romantic...

Monique said...

Congratulations. A beautiful story. Such exciting times await you....the big move and a new little life joining you.

Soja said...

Congratulations and Happy Anniversary! What a beautiful couple :-)

Kate said...

What a beautiful story! Happy Anniversary - and best of luck with the move!

Kate x

Lisa [strickerin] said...

Happy Anniversary! This one must be extra special with your impending move back to Australia and precious little one on the way.

Congratulations.

BumbleVee said...

Happy Anniversary Melanie.....

Sasparilla Sue said...

Happy anniversary! Sounds like a magical day!

Anonymous said...

Happy anniversary!! the photos are lovely!

Beth said...

Happy anniversary! I love Gorecki, but it's now hard to pick which one I'd have as my walking down the aisle song, as I love Lamb's 'Gabriel' too! Both very appropriate. Gorgeous photos.

Bec said...

Oh, I have a tear in my eye reading this beautiful story. These pictures are so so gorgeous too - Happy Anniversary :)
XXX Bec

Semsavblanc said...

I knew this would make me cry, before I even started reading. What a moving tribute to your marriage and beautiful husband. So much can happen in three years. God bless you both!

Cathy {tinniegirl} said...

Many happy days to you both.

teresa fsw said...

Happy Anniversary to the both of you! May you be blessed with great happiness and good health in many years to come! ^_^

Lauren said...

Happy Anniversary!

Unknown said...

Gorgeous! Happy Anniversary :)

Jade said...

What a beautiful post. Congratulations! And I love your dress - just stunning.

Jenny said...

I have a tear in my eye! Happy Happy Anniversary to you both and many happy years together:)

Anonymous said...

Congrats, you know we were married in London 3 months after I moved there, a month after Gregg arrived and we have spent all our married life overseas!!

flossy-p said...

Looks beautiful! Happy Anniversary :)

Anastasia said...

hope you had a wonderful anniversary - love your wedding pics and the location looks amazing!!

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