Now THAT's a fascinator!

You may remember the fascinator dilemma I faced this summer when we were in Northern Ireland for Catherine's wedding. Well, it looks like mine barely makes it on the radar compared to this one!

I'm actually very fond of them now and just wish I had the opportunity to wear it again.

Anyway, this is a picture of Simon's friend Brian from Scotland and his beautiful new bride, Sian. Oh, how I'd love to go back and visit!

Brian and Sian's Wedding

December 12, 2009

Northern Ireland - Part 6

The Story of Two Fascinators

I ended up with my own creation since I found two fascinators that I liked different parts of. One of them had a netting in front that I wanted to keep, but had a large floppy bow on top that I didn't. So, Simon lovingly cut the floppy bow off and replaced it with the lighter, fluffier bow and feathers from the second fascinator. I think it turned out great and I have to admit, it was fun doing something different.

Haviland enjoyed her headband with flowers as well and even cried at the end of the day when she noticed that they had shriveled and died. Who knows, maybe we'll bring a new trend to the US.

The Graham Fam Girls


Simon's cousin Heather


Simon's cousin's wife Julie


Simon's wife Kelli


Simon's wifey again


Simon's mom and Great Uncle James


Simon's cousin Diane


Steinar's Sister-in-Law


Neighbors Glynnis and Joey (Josephine)


Simon's Great Auntie Elizabeth and Great Uncle James

Northern Ireland- Part 5

Nothing to say but a wonderfully perfect day!!! :)
I'll give a fascinator fashion show tomorrow.

Northern Ireland - Part 3

No decisions about the fascinator yet. It seems like one of Simon's cousins is wearing one of the fascinators I picked out, so that one is out. Now I'm considering a hat, although time is running out!

We had the wedding rehearsal today and I cried for most of it. I had no idea that I'd feel emotional, but being back in the church we were married in and hearing the same vows with the same minister meant so much. I kept thinking of how nine years ago I knew I was excited to get married, but I had no idea of what marriage would really look like and how blessed we have been indeed. Part of the ceremony is even asking God to bless the couple with children if it is His will. As I sat with Jackson, Haviland, Bennett and Baby No-Name Graham it all just hit me and I was so humbled to think of what a gift Simon and my children are to me.

This afternoon we went into Belfast to meet Steinar's family from Norway that had flown in. About 40 of them came over for the wedding and we enjoyed meeting them all even if only 5 of them speak English. They are very kind though and I think we will all have a great time together at the wedding regardless of any language barrier.

Catherine has been as cool as a cucumber and not a typical stressed out bride. It's so great to see her smiling and enjoying everyone and letting the little details take care of themselves.

Now we're just praying that the forecasted rain holds off until after the wedding. Actually, it's not the rain that's so bad. It's the combination of wind and the rain that cuts through you that makes you feel so miserable. We were caught in it today as we were leaving dinner walking back to the car. Yuck!

That's all for today!

Northern Ireland - Part 2

No pictures today and I wouldn't share them if I had them. You'll understand why by the end of this post. :)

We spent most of the day running pre-wedding errands. We picked up Catherine's wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses from the bridal shop (all very gorgeous), Simon and his dad got their suits and so now, this question remains...

Should I fascinate or not fascinate?

Before this week I didn't even know what a fascinator was much less thought there was a need to have one. Basically, it's a hair accessory that I truly don't know how to describe. Take a look for yourself. Pretty shocking, huh?

Of course, normally there is NO question that I would ever seriously wear one of these- unless I wanted to look like a freaky peacock, but these things are so common in all the shops that I'm starting to believe that people actually do wear them.

Simon's mom convinced me to buy two today to try on with my dress here at the house and I caved under the pressure of not knowing how to say "Ummm, no way." True, I think I looked ridiculous in them but after getting home and have Simon's mom try on her hat and to hear all the stories of what everyone else's fascinators look like I admit that I'll look very plain jane in my solid colored dress and accessory-free hair.

Now nine years ago at our wedding this wasn't an issue since I was the bride and I had a veil, but now I just don't know what in the world to do! Is this a case of when in Rome, do as the Romans do? Or will I regret this hair frockery for the rest of my life????

Prayers and input appreciated! :)

Miss you all!