About Meg

The first question people ask is, “Sweden!? Why Sweden?” Well, my husband lives in Sweden and home is where the heart is! “He lives in Sweden!? But how did you meet?” No, we didn’t meet through a chance meeting while he was traveling for work, we met online. “Oh, one of those dating websites??” No, we had a mutual interest. This is usually met with a confused expression. We met through an online game where we learned about each other and fell in love. He came to New York City and I went to Sweden. We got married and I moved to Sweden instead of him moving to New York. Where will it lead? How long will you live there? All we know is we are here now and I have to learn how to become a Swedish Wife.

I am learning Swedish language, culture and history. Traditions and nuances. Food and Decor. I am learning to be Swedish while learning to be a wife. While learning to live (Very far) away from home for the first time. I am keeping track of my progress, my experiences, my interactions. I  am sharing my thoughts, my solutions, my difficulties, my conquests and the things I learn along the way.

I hope to reach out and help out. To find people who are curious and interested. My journey is one of many! Its a new life on every level and I intend on making the best of it!

111 Comments (+add yours?)

  1. Amie Winters
    Jan 17, 2012 @ 15:39:56

    I feel your pain in the first paragraph… People always asked me why I moved to Arkansas of all places. Do you tell everybody you met on an online game? I have found in the years Jason and I have been together to just let people assume we met through a dating website or whatever else, unless I am friendly with the person. I get less weird looks and less “Oh, well, that’s….interesting.”

    I am so glad though that at least Arkansans speak English, well, mostly…I don’t envy you on learning another language.

    Oh and btw, I miss you and the hubby! Tell him I said hi!

    Reply

  2. megalagom
    Jan 17, 2012 @ 22:53:27

    It is a bit of an awkward thing to drop into a conversation, but I like defending it so I don’t hide it. I used to but I didn’t feel like I should have to. I do usually say “Online” And only tell them “Gaming” if they probe. Which then leads into me talking about how its a great way to meet someone, when you least expect it, doing something you both enjoy. Its safer than meeting someone in a sleezy bar while drinking, you get to know the person over time. But yea, it does raise some eyebrows, and I do get a bit nervous saying it sometimes. We miss you too!

    Reply

    • Angela
      Jan 30, 2012 @ 15:51:16

      aahh Tell me about it. The Internet seemed so new and scary for a lot of people 12 years ago…..i hated the awkward responses. Now nobody cares if people meet online.

      Reply

    • Gunilla
      Jun 12, 2012 @ 05:37:38

      Ahahaha, that is too funny :) I met my first husband the same way, but this was back in 1992! Try explaining “the Internet” to immigrations back then – it was not easy! He moved to Sweden with me for a while, had the kids there (of course!), and then moved over here. I’m still here, but now with my second husband. I like to think he’s the last ;)

      Reply

      • megalagom
        Oct 24, 2012 @ 11:05:29

        Sorry for the late reply! Wow, you met online in 1992 and moved to Sweden? That’s amazing. Sometimes its people who bring you to where you need to be, even if not with each other. :) Best of luck to you- always great to hear these Swedish love stories!

  3. Myrhyn
    Jan 23, 2012 @ 01:38:01

    Hey Meg,

    I think it is awesome that you met through a game. I have a very similar story but I have not yet moved till Sverige :-)

    Reply

  4. Monica Hagnevik
    Jan 23, 2012 @ 10:45:08

    I too moved here because of a Swedish husband that I met on the Internet. The difference is that we met, got married, and lived in the States (Las Vegas) together for 11 years before we decided to move to southern Sweden (Skåne). I have now lived in Sweden for 2 1/2 years and jag kan prata lite svenska. I went SFI and finished in less than a year. I enjoy living in Sweden and of course there are some things that take some getting used to like the stores closing so early (open 24/7 in Vegas) and nothing much being open on Sundays. However, I do not regret it at all and with your open mind and positive attitude, you should have no trouble at all.
    Monica

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Jan 23, 2012 @ 23:09:50

      That’s great to hear, Monica! Thank you for the encouragement, its nice to have people to relate to! Hope to hear from you again! It sounds like you are doing well!

      Reply

  5. pipkinera
    Jan 23, 2012 @ 14:11:18

    Hej!

    Hmm Engelska eller svenska? I’ll write in English :-)

    I’m from England and have lived in Sweden for 8 years now. Almost married!

    I speak swedish 80% of the time now, except when I’m angry hehe

    pipkinera

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Jan 23, 2012 @ 23:11:26

      Engelska for now! Once I get more comfortable and learn more I am really looking forward to trying to write more in Swedish! Its great to hear that you are so comfortable with the language now! Very encouraging- tack!!

      Reply

  6. Giselle
    Jan 24, 2012 @ 01:57:21

    Meggie :)
    Gotta read your blog. I am super nervous about moving and relocating with Charlie but you moved out of the country!! So if you can do it, I know I can ;) You’ll be my motivation, to accept all challenges but be grateful for the experience xoxo

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Jan 24, 2012 @ 08:20:28

      Giselle, Nervous is normal! I would be concerned if you weren’t nervous. Do you know where you’ll be moving? I know you’ll be fine, it takes some time and work but it all comes together and is worth it, you’ll adjust just like I am. I’m glad I’m helping just by being here xoxo <3 Hope to see you when we are in NY, when will you be leaving?

      Reply

  7. Myrhyn
    Jan 25, 2012 @ 00:51:12

    Hi Mel,

    I am coming to Stockholm, next week :-)

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Jan 25, 2012 @ 01:14:46

      Have a great visit! I have never been to Stockholm, it is way north of us :) Looking forward to going there sometime this year when money isn’t as tight :) Tell me all about it when you can though!

      Reply

  8. Jessica
    Jan 25, 2012 @ 15:31:22

    Hi there!

    I have a very similar story about meeting through a game, and I agree it’s a great way to get to know someone over time, without even meaning to! =) Been living in Sweden with the Swedish sambo since November 2010. I hope you’re doing well so far!

    Reply

  9. Myrhyn
    Jan 25, 2012 @ 19:58:12

    It is my second visit to Stockholm: it is a beautiful city. Will report!

    Reply

  10. Angela
    Jan 30, 2012 @ 14:29:20

    Hi! Nice blog you have! I am originally from Holland but married to a swede. We have lived in Ireland for 2 years and now in Sweden/Småland/Värnamo for over the past 5 years. I haven’t read all of your blog yet…but where do you live? Or did i totally miss that while being a stupid blonde? ;)
    I don’t have a blog…boring i know :)
    Good luck on your journey in this beautiful country!
    Angela

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Jan 30, 2012 @ 15:36:58

      Hi Angela! We are in Southern Sweden, Halmstad. My husband is originally from Varnamo and we visit his family there from time to time. Ireland is one of the places I’d like to visit (There are many) I am half Irish. It’s a shame you don’t have a blog but I’m glad you are enjoying mine! Maybe it will inspire you!

      Reply

      • Angela
        Jan 30, 2012 @ 15:46:37

        Haha, yeah yeah make me feel worse about not having a blog ;) I only have FB. (click for link) My friends and family in Holland/Ireland keep whining about it. We’ll see how it goes.
        I live in Reftele to be exact. For how long have you been living here?

  11. megalagom
    Jan 30, 2012 @ 15:56:46

    I have been visiting for three years (4 times, total of three months) and I just finally moved here on December 17th! :)

    Reply

    • Angela
      Jan 30, 2012 @ 16:07:32

      Välkommen!! :) What are your plans? besides SFI? Study? Work? What do you want to do? Good luck!

      Reply

      • megalagom
        Jan 31, 2012 @ 10:03:13

        Looking to start working as soon as I can, I understand its hard to find work without Swedish so SFI is the first priority right now. :) I’m sure it will all fall into place! Tack!

  12. Annika
    Jan 30, 2012 @ 21:40:01

    Hi. I came across your blog through local.se , lol …i just clicked your blog and started reading a bit. I’m kind of in a similiar situation, only that i met my future husband on facebook, and i totally hate it when ppl ask me where we met, lolv…anyways…we have applied for him to come live with me in Skåne.He lives in new york,and we should have a decision within a month, only problem is that he is at the same time applyinf for american citizenship, and can’t live outside of the country more than 6 month, so we will probably have to wait til summer. The waiting is sooo frustrating. Just wanted to share some, and i’ll keep reading your blog, seems interesting ;)

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Jan 31, 2012 @ 10:00:22

      Hi Annika!

      Wow, that sounds a bit more confusing than most other citizenship decisions. The great thing about online relationships is you are used to being apart, waiting a few months so that you are allowed to be together isn’t the end of the world, even if it sucks. Glad you like the blog!

      Reply

      • Tiia
        May 17, 2012 @ 14:00:43

        Great to see so many people have met through internet! I met my boyfriend / sambo in FB and we’ve been together for almost 4 years now. We have lived in Finland, in The Netherlands and now in Stockholm, Sweden.

        Your blog is very nice! I’m sure you have new follower here :)

        Br,
        Tiia
        http://jippijayjei.blogspot.com

  13. housewifedownunder
    Feb 05, 2012 @ 23:35:01

    Hi, Meg. Thanks for following my blog. It’s nice to see there are others out there in a similar situation. :-)

    I know what you mean about telling people where you met. My first husband and I met on an online game and, my! The looks people gave me!

    I moved to Poland for him and went back to the US when it didn’t work out. It’s a lot harder trying to integrate into a country where you don’t know the language. I’m having a much easier time in Australia than I did in Poland.

    I hope Sweden starts to feel like home to you very quickly. It’s a beautiful country with a lot to like about it.

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Feb 07, 2012 @ 10:33:36

      I’m glad you are having an easier time in Australia. I always thought it would be hardest to learn and adapt to culture or customs but you just can’t do that without the language, so its priority number one. Thanks for reading!

      Reply

  14. nothanks
    Feb 11, 2012 @ 21:09:09

    You might be interested in this.
    http://movingtosweden.org/

    It is a blogg about an american expat moving and living in the exact same town as you do. So it might give you some cultural reference about certain things that are different in your little corner of the world

    Reply

  15. Andreas
    Feb 14, 2012 @ 09:40:22

    Hi Meg :) Just saw that you followed me on Twitter and your name piqued my interest, found your blog and now I’m a subscriber ;D

    I have almost the exact same story as you, but I guess it’s “reversed”. I’m Swedish and met the love of my life (Beth <3) in an online game (Star Wars Galaxies), she visited me in Sweden but I moved from Sweden to California ;)

    Anyways, I hope you're doing well in the cold. I've added your RSS feed to my reader so I'll read as many of your posts as I can :D

    Take care!
    -Andreas

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Feb 14, 2012 @ 11:01:16

      Andreas, so glad you joined the party! Always nice to meet people who found love online, and even better if they have moved to/from Sweden! Nice to meet you- hope you are enjoying sunny Cali enough for the both of us- brrrr. :)

      Reply

  16. Melody
    Feb 23, 2012 @ 10:58:25

    What a wonderful yummy-looking post! I think I’m going to run down the street now to our local bakerei, practice my nearly nonexistent German, gobble something fatty and sweet, and then the dogs shall get their romp through the vineyards! I look forward to reading more about your Swedish adventures! Tchuss!

    Reply

  17. Veronica
    Feb 27, 2012 @ 12:28:46

    I like your blog, Meg! It’s fun to read how an ‘outsider’ experience your own country. Myself comes from Skane but have lived the past 10 years in the Netherlands. Hope you will enjoy yourself and create a good life in Halmstad! By they way, when I tell people I live in the Netherlands they also get very confused. Cos how could I leave a country with so much space and wonderful nature to tiny, overcrowded and natureless Holland??!!

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Feb 27, 2012 @ 12:33:09

      Thank you Veronica! I actually have a friend who will be moving to Holland from Halmstad this Summer! I’m glad you enjoy the blog! Thanks for following :)

      Reply

  18. Angela
    Feb 27, 2012 @ 13:38:43

    As coming from Holland myself and having lived in Sweden for over 5 years In would never be able to live in Holland again. So crowded! It’s always such a relief to be able to put myself on a plane back to Sweden again :) But i guess it’s what you get used to. How do you like life in Holland Veronica? and where do you live if i may ask? I am originally from outside Eindhoven.
    I really enjoy your blog Meg! Your writing is entertaining!

    Reply

  19. gvide
    Mar 04, 2012 @ 08:39:19

    Dear Meg, I’ve just randomly found your blog this morning and just wanted to add a “you go, girl!” to you. I’m originally from the US, too. I arrived on the “two year plan” and have extended that for 15 years! (Note: when I met Americans abroad, like myself, when I first moved here, I thought they were martians. I speak for all of them: we’re OK!… In some ways, I feel more American than when I arrived and in others, have picked up peculiarities that must be called “martian” to my family when I am “home and visiting.”)
    I grew the most and the experience was the best when I decided that living here vs the US was not an “or” statement; but it was an “and:” I can like my life here AND I can like my life there. They both have their good points and both good lives. I’ve very glad that I found you and will return. I’ve only recently started a blog, too that is very much about an international family abroad with an eye on design, the everyday, food and travel. Warm Wishes to you/G @willowday

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Mar 04, 2012 @ 11:14:39

      I’m glad you found me too! Thank you for the insight. “AND” is the right word, there’s nothing wrong with liking two different “worlds” I will check out your blog- thanks for the great comment :)

      Reply

  20. Veronica
    Mar 04, 2012 @ 12:36:01

    Hej hej!

    Thank you for liking and commenting on some of my posts :)

    It must have been exciting for you to move to Sweden, I’ve been there and the people are real nice! Though the chilly weather took a little bit of adjusting to.

    Good luck with learning Swedish and everything! :)

    Reply

  21. trailingexpatspouse
    Mar 09, 2012 @ 01:39:58

    You are very brave and don’t forget it – to not only move to a new country but to take on new family and friends, language and culture, it’s no small thing. Enjoy your life and don’t forget to rug up!

    Reply

  22. Rebekah
    Mar 19, 2012 @ 21:15:18

    Hiya,
    I did the other way around — moved from Sweden to Canada [first five years in Quebec!] when I was almost fifty. Met my man online, in a mutual interest chat room. Now it’s been eight years, and I live in Maritime Canada. From Härnösand..

    Reply

  23. Hemborgwife
    Mar 20, 2012 @ 18:37:30

    Always love to read about another American here in Sweden!

    Reply

  24. PhWriter11
    Mar 25, 2012 @ 05:54:33

    Hi to all! It’s nice to know people having similar experiences, specially meeting our lifetime partners online. With technology nowadays, it’s nice to have friends too even when we are so busy with work in different timezones. I am married to Swedish husband, and he tells me many stories of his homeland, family, tradition, food and the many nice places to see in Sweden. We plan to go on summer vacation and have our Swedish wedding too. He likes me to experience traditional Swedish wedding complete with a real Swedish flower crown, just like a princess. Oh I would love to go and pick flowers too! I hope to meet more friends from Expat Blog so we can have nice Midsommar together:)

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Mar 28, 2012 @ 10:18:54

      Hi Phwriter! It really is something special that we are all able to find each other and connect! How exciting for your Swedish wedding – That’s lovely! I loved mine, it was just perfect! Midsommar is wonderful and I can’t wait to celebrate it again!

      Reply

  25. Lynne Ayers
    Mar 28, 2012 @ 15:20:20

    You’ve taken such a huge bite but you seem to be up for the challenges. It was enough for me to adjust to becoming a wife – and I missed my family when they only lived an hour away!

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Mar 29, 2012 @ 10:12:06

      That’s the thing- I figure it doesn’t matter how far you move, weather it is a couple of hours away or around the world, you will still be somewhere new, different, a place you need to adjust to (Maybe not as much) and either way you will have that separation. On the other hand, I speak to some of my family more now than I ever did before- even if its not face to face I still think that is special.

      Reply

  26. Emelia
    Apr 08, 2012 @ 11:24:38

    Hi! I was so excited to find your blog! I’m from the US and I’m spending the spring semester in Sweden at Linnaeus University, which is in Växjö in Kronoberg. It’s great to read about another American’s experiences, especially with price conversion. (I’ve realized I’ve gotten very good at my seven times table!)

    Have a great week!

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Apr 12, 2012 @ 10:52:04

      Hi Emelia, I’m happy that my blog is helping with the transition!! its always nice to connect with other people visiting/moving to Sweden! Hope to hear more from you. I still stink at my seven times table…lots of finger counting!! haha

      Reply

  27. housewifedownunder
    Apr 10, 2012 @ 08:28:12

    Meg, I’ve nominated you for a Versatile Blogger Award. Congrats! http://housewifedownunder.wordpress.com/2012/04/10/versatile-blogger-award/

    Reply

  28. Rose
    Apr 12, 2012 @ 10:34:50

    Hey Lagom I just found your Blog! I have been living in Halmstad for just 2 weeks, It’s my first time in Sweden and I came all the way from New Zealand to live her with my darling. :-)
    Im so excited to find out there are people like me randomly moving here, everything thought I was mad but you know home is where the heart is!
    I am currently trying to get into the SFI corse so hopefully I wont have to wait to long as I just want to get into it. I don’t know anyone here at all so it can be rather frustrating at times as my partner is working all day :-)
    Well nice to know your here, nice Blog good luck.

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Apr 12, 2012 @ 10:55:15

      Oh! Välkommen till Halmstad!! I have seen some people get into my SFI claass very very quickly, even after it had started, because there wass just seats available. If you do haave to wait it should only be for about 4-6 weeks. I had to wait 9 weeks because I just missed the last spot. Now you kind of “know” someone in the area! I hope to hear from you again, good luck with SFI, maybe we will bump into each other :)

      Reply

  29. Rose
    Apr 12, 2012 @ 19:30:48

    Hey well funny you say that 4-6 weeks!! haha I was there today speaking again with them and I was told there is No place till the 18th of June!! I was like wo wo wo.. haha
    I will be going to the SFI3 but there is no places at the moment, so they say.
    So I think I will have taught myself Swedish by June :) Hopefully a spot will come up before then, in the mean time I will continue with my study at home.
    It’s kind of a bummer also as i’m looking forward to meeting some people around here, I read in one of your blogs that there is also someone from New Zealand in your class??
    Well maybe we can meet up for a Fika sometime your free.
    goodluck
    Cheers :)

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Apr 12, 2012 @ 21:09:36

      I actually learned today that the school will be moving to a different location in the begining of June- so keeping that in mind I assume they will not be starting any new classes before the move, to keep it less complicated. 6 weeks would be the end of May, so it makes sense since the school will be closed for 10 days. Studying at home helps a lot, I came into the class being somewhat familiar with the basics and could tell that I understood more than some of the class, most of the class seemed to have been studying on thier own as well. Very helpful since the class is taught with so much Swedish.
      The guy from New Zealand actually had to leave our class and start night school because of a new job, but I think some keep in touch with him. Fika sounds like an idea- socializing has really been helping a lot since I’ve moved here, the adjustment is hard. Lycka Till! (Good luck)

      Reply

  30. Rose
    Apr 16, 2012 @ 14:29:33

    Hej, Thanks for the reply! So 6 weeks sound’s good I guess. I am just so ready to start the classes mostly for the fact that I need to meet some people :-)
    Do you have any other Idea’s for me to meet people? My partner is really trying to introduce me to his friends but he’s working so much that It’s not to easy.
    I have been searching for some kind of groups meetup ect.. going on but I can’t seem to find anything really going on for English speaking people. :P
    Any more Ideas to help me settle in would be greatly appreciated.
    I am continuing with the study at home but it’s all very different learning Swedish but as I taught myself French and Spanish I know I will get there!
    Thanks :)

    Reply

  31. Sixtine and The Little Things
    Apr 17, 2012 @ 11:23:47

    Hej Meg, this is such a sweet love story ! I met my Canadian husband in Iceland while traveling the Nordic countries (Sweden, Norway…) and we get the question very often !
    I love reading your blog – keep up the good work !

    Reply

  32. shivanjalitomar
    Apr 17, 2012 @ 23:19:11

    Hej Meg,
    It was quite interesting to see your blog. I am an interaction design student at Umeå Institute of Design. We are currently working on a service design project around ‘language and participation’ and ‘teaching Swedish as a second language’, I guess you saw some of the initial work on my blog ‘Putting the X in ID’. I was wondering if it would be possible to speak with you anytime, I think you could provide some really interesting perspective and insights on our project.

    Please let me know.

    Best,
    Shivanjali

    Reply

  33. Alexandra Bengtsson
    Apr 19, 2012 @ 10:51:17

    Hi!
    I really like your blog (I found the link on the blog An american hermit crab in Denmark). It’s interesting to see all your pictures. I read some of your posts, have you been to Halmstad? I used to live there.. there’s a beautiful place called Skipås north of Halmstad, you have to go there if you live nearby :)
    Have a great day! /Alexandra

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Apr 19, 2012 @ 10:58:54

      Hi Alexandra! Thanks for stopping by :) Yes, I live in Halmstad, but I have never been to Skipås- I will have to look into it!! Thank you for the tip!

      Reply

  34. Malte Zeeck
    May 02, 2012 @ 16:49:22

    Hello there! My name is Malte Zeeck, and I am with InterNations.org. I really enjoyed reading your fantastic blog! I think expats in Sweden and around the world could really gain some great insights [and have a few good laughs] on this page. The quality of the blog in general is very convincing, which is why I would love to feature you and your writing on the Recommended Blog on Sweden section on InterNations.org
    Not only do we feature and link to your blog prominently; we also would like to hear from you directly in our questionnaire! We have also designed a link badge for your blog.
    If you are interested, please feel free to contact me via email: maltezeeck@internations.org
    Best,
    Malte Zeeck

    Reply

    • megalagom
      May 02, 2012 @ 17:24:24

      Hi Malte, I’m would be honored to be part of InterNations.org. Thank you for noticing my blog, I am so happy that you like it and feel others could learn from it! Emailing you now :)

      Reply

  35. Inspiration Sandwich
    May 03, 2012 @ 13:30:56

    Hi Meg! Thanks very much for liking my post about colorful cities & villages, I appreciate it! I like your blog! I think it’s very interesting to read about how people experience new countries. I’ve been to Sweden once (Stockholm) and very much enjoyed it. It’s a beautiful country and I’d like to travel further into Sweden some time! Do you go back to New York often? Keep up the good work! Cheers!

    Reply

  36. maggiemyklebust
    Jun 02, 2012 @ 14:18:38

    You have a great attitude and as a Jersey girl whose been living in Norway for over twenty years, I know that’s half the battle…

    Reply

  37. tennizzlle
    Jun 05, 2012 @ 14:01:25

    Tag, you’re it! I’ve tagged you at http://tennizzlle.com/2012/06/05/tag-youre-it/.

    Reply

  38. akitcheninwonderland
    Jun 25, 2012 @ 11:41:16

    I loved your blog! I was reading your posts about learning the language and the SFI classes and I couldn’t help but laugh. I’ll keep coming back often, I can easily relate to many things that you’ve said. You should consider yourself lucky to be able to practice the language with your husband! I’m out of school until August and have very few chances to practice the language! Hopefully it will stay with me until my next class

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Oct 24, 2012 @ 11:07:39

      Sorry for the late reply! I love writing about the language struggles, I think its the most interesting part of being here (and the food)! I know Swedes and other SFI students can really relate and get a kick out of it! Good luck with your studies!

      Reply

  39. viveka
    Aug 06, 2012 @ 17:14:02

    Meg, trying to be a Swedish wife …. don’t try too hard.*laughter – like what see here .. so I will stick around. Lovely to have met you. Wivi

    Reply

  40. dakota85
    Sep 19, 2012 @ 20:39:27

    Hi Meg- I just wanted to send you a quick THANKS for being such a loyal follower of my blog. Your support is so appreciated!

    Reply

  41. Rae
    Oct 03, 2012 @ 16:40:26

    Wow! I could have written your intro! Except I’m from San Diego, CA and we (finally) met in Japan. I’ve been living in Sweden for 3 years now. I would LOVE to hear from another American!

    BTW, I’m at a little town near Linköping.

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Oct 24, 2012 @ 11:02:00

      Hej Rae! Always great to hear about others who moved to Sweden for love! I’ve never been to Linkoping, but my husbands family lives in “a little town near” Jonkoping :) , which isn’t too far!

      Reply

  42. Michelle
    Oct 24, 2012 @ 10:46:41

    What a wonderful blog, Meg! It is nice to know that others are in similar situations. I moved 2 months ago from Canada to Halmstad, Sweden (Yes, because of my boyfriend) and absolutely love it here. I hope you are enjoying SFI, Meg! :)

    Reply

  43. Michelle
    Oct 24, 2012 @ 12:48:01

    Nej! I am here for 364 days on my visa, so unfortunately I can not get a personnummer, hence I can not join SFI. I finished my Swedish intensive course at Folkuniversitet recently. How is SFI treating you? I am going to try the Canelbullar recipe tomorrow that you posted. Thank you so much! Maybe we will see each other around. :)

    Reply

    • Rae
      Oct 24, 2012 @ 15:00:57

      Hi Michelle! I don’t mean to thread jack but couldn’t help but notice your reply. If your bf is Swedish, you’re definitely entitled to a personnummer! We had no intention to marry when I first arrived here and had gotten mine not too long after. Are you here on a sambo visa?

      Reply

      • Michelle
        Oct 26, 2012 @ 09:18:28

        Hey Rae, no worries! I obtained my visa through the Youth Canada Exchange Program between Canada and Sweden. so it is quite different from a regular visa where you need a sponsor. They even specify in my papers that it is 364 days so I can not get a personnummer. Haha, it is ridiculous. Thank you for replying though :)

    • megalagom
      Oct 24, 2012 @ 17:36:45

      Hej Michelle,

      Rae has a good point- you can certainly try to apply for a sambo visa or sometimes there are temporary personnummers as well, although I don’t know under what circumstances they are given (I guess work or school) SFI has been very helpful- how is Folkuniversitet? I might start to teach English classes there in January if I get enough students, so I’d love to hear about it! Please let me know how your kanelbullar comes out!

      Reply

      • Michelle
        Oct 26, 2012 @ 09:25:00

        Yeah, I had emailed Skatteverket before I left with my circumstances and they said I can not get a personnummer. It is so silly! Folkuniversitet was really nice, I really enjoyed it! The staff there were so friendly and helpful if we needed anything. Our Swedish class was only 2 people, so we had the opportunity to experience the comfort of small class room size and more chances to ask questions. What do you do for work Meg? I will definitely let you know! :)

  44. dhedstrom
    Nov 13, 2012 @ 11:14:02

    Hej Meg and fellow state of New Yorker! I moved to Sweden April of last year (2012) from Jamestown, NY (near Buffalo). A Swedish co-worker shared your blog with me today and it is fantastic! I laugh at some of the same things we both have seemed to discover here in our new home. I also have a Swedish husband (as of this summer) and we met while we were both on vacation in the US at the same place. I look forward to reading and relating to your experiences here in Sweden!

    Reply

    • Monica Hagnevik
      Nov 14, 2012 @ 10:05:28

      Hello, I am also from western NY, Rochester to be exact. What part of Sweden are you in? I have been in Sweden for over three years and I live in Skåne.

      Reply

      • dhedstrom
        Nov 14, 2012 @ 10:14:39

        I live in Västerås. Too funny about Rochester because my daughter just started in Engliska Skolan this year and her Science/Math teacher is from Rochester. She just moved here right before school started, so she is brand new to this Swedish life style. I will def. have to pass on your blog to her as well. ;-)

    • megalagom
      Nov 17, 2012 @ 16:11:01

      Hej hej! It’s always so cool to hear about other New Yorkers that have moved to Sweden! It’s great to relate to each other in this strange new country :) I’m thrilled that you enjoy the blog and that your co-worker recommended it! I hope Sweden is treating you well ^^

      Reply

  45. housewifedownunder
    Nov 28, 2012 @ 04:33:03

    I’ve been nominated for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award and I am now sharing the love… I think your blog is inspiring, well written and thoroughly worth reading, so I have nominated you for the award too: consider yourself a Very Inspiring Blogger! If you would like to accept the award, click on the following link to read the rules and the post in which you are listed: http://housewifedownunder.wordpress.com/2012/11/28/the-very-inspiring-blogger-award/ Congratulations!

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Dec 29, 2012 @ 21:20:49

      Thanks!! I will be accepting and reposting very soon (I have been an award accepting slacker!) Just wanted to show you that I saw it and am working on my post! :)

      Reply

  46. annelie
    Dec 04, 2012 @ 10:51:03

    My husband and I met also online but back when MSN had different chatrooms and we both happened to be in the one that was the busiest, the romance room :-P I moved to London from Stockholm and we have a 1 year old girl and I am never moving back to Stockholm or Sweden, no if I can help it :-D Good luck, I think you are very brave

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Dec 29, 2012 @ 21:19:16

      How fun to hear about how people meet online! You are just as brave for moving to London as I am for coming to Sweden – Glad you ended up with someone you love, somewhere you love!

      Reply

  47. Joyce
    Dec 11, 2012 @ 21:15:59

    Hello. I found your website today and have found it inspirational. I have met and fell in love with a man living in Sweden, 15 years my junior, through an online social site, not a dating site. I live in New York. He is equally entralled with me. We speak by phone several times per day, we share so very much in common it is uncanny. He wants to visit for the first time this Spring. But I am a bit apprehensive as I do not know what the end game would be. He is divorced with a young daughter that needs him, I have an older daughter still in school. My heart says just let him come and see what happens. But my head says how could this possibly work out. I guess I just wanted to know if you struggled with your decision to initially pursue your relationship with your husband. Or did you “just know”. Thank you. :)

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Dec 29, 2012 @ 21:17:32

      Hi Joyce! Sorry for the delayed response, it has been a hectic holiday! I’m happy that Something Swedish gave you some inspiration :) My advise? There’s no harm in trying it out. The heart wants what it wants, and the rest will fall in place. If it works out between the two of you face to face, the rest will follow – eventually. It is a long road, but it’s worth it. We traveled back and forth for three years, but we never regretted it.We did “just know” and kept going. It was the journey that brought us together. If he visits you, take the time to try instead of being worried or nervous or thinking about the end game, no need to jump so far ahead that you scare yourself out of something with potential. You can’t control who you will fall for- or where in the world they will live. The world is a small place nowadays. And a Swedish man is a good one to have :) Good luck – I hope it works out and I hope this helped!

      Reply

  48. Ilva
    Feb 04, 2013 @ 01:25:48

    Oh my! Sounds like my story I met my boyfriend playing League of Legends, came to visit him in summer and we fell in love although until then we were just friends and talked in skype at the time, but now I am also in Sweden waiting for ID :D Hah, not an unique love-story I guess :D

    Reply

  49. Siobhan
    Feb 12, 2013 @ 22:54:06

    Hey! I am an expat living in Halmstad and teaching at Engelska Skolan. I moved here from Philadelphia in August 2012. I heard about your blog through a cover teacher at the school who met you through SFI…I think. Her name is Julie and she was really nice. I’m 23. We should fika :) Email me if you have a chance!

    Reply

  50. researchingparents
    Feb 16, 2013 @ 21:37:43

    Clearly you have quite the following, and I can see why! I just (selfishly) hope that you continue writing in English. It’s a very helpful website and several of the Swedish nuances I completely relate to. I had a discussion with my Swedish colleague about the differences in the keyboards and much to my chagrin, he didn’t yield. Now I have some cannon fodder with your lovely drawing of the differences as well as the common mistake you (and I) make when typing on a Swedish keyboard.

    Being in Sweden, I had to switch from a PC to a Mac, and now can much more easily switch the preferences back and forth from English to Swedish, which is such a blessing. Prior, I would use a translator and copy the individual extra letters to complete the word I needed to type haha.

    How long have you been here now? How long did it take you to go through the SFI courses? Do you speak Swedish or English at home/work? And how did you get the Dala horse to show up on the tab–that’s awesome!?

    Trevlig Helg!

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Apr 27, 2013 @ 12:00:08

      Time flies! I remember reading this comment and meaning to reply to it as if it was yesterday – sorry about that!

      Luckily for you I don’t plan on switching the blog to Swedish (Although I might start making little extra posts for fun in Swedish every so often, for fun and practice) I’ve been living in Sweden for about a year and a half now (Since Dec 2011). I finished SFI in about 9 months (give or take due SFI being very slow and not so helpful in the summer time and going on vacation) I wasn’t comfortable enough with my Swedish until only about 6 months ago – it makes a huge difference when you start to use it outside of school! I speak English at home because its easier and try to speak Swedish everywhere else.

      As for the dala horse… its a secret! :P (Aka, I don’t remember, I looked it up and followed the tutorial)

      Reply

  51. Paula Wright
    Feb 23, 2013 @ 00:30:49

    I hope you do not mind me getting in touch. I work for an American property and travel show and I came across your blog whilst looking for people to participate in our popular documentary show and really enjoyed reading about your adventures!

    We are currently looking for families and individuals to appear on our show who have recently relocated to new and exciting parts of the world and have an interesting story to tell – and it seems to me you would fit the bill.

    I would love have the opportunity to tell you more about the show and how it would work and hear more about your adventurous move. To give you an overview – we tell the story of people who have moved to new countries with a particular focus on their property search and the story of why they chose their current location. We do offer a payment of $1500 (or a flight home – although I think most of the people who have been on the show take part for the experience more than the money!) for every episode and filming takes 3-4 days.

    If you would be interested in finding out more I would be delighted to arrange a mutually convenient time to speak over the phone. You can contact me on +1 212 231 7715 or +1 917 2745401. Alternatively you can email me a good number to reach you on and the best time to call and I would be happy to call you at your leisure. My direct email address is paula.wright@leopardfilms.com

    Thank you and I hope to hear from you soon.

    All the best

    Paula Wright
    Segment Producer
    ‘House Hunters International’
    Leopard Films USA
    Tel: +1 212 231 7715
    Cell: +1 917 274 5401

    Reply

  52. Heather
    Apr 10, 2013 @ 20:14:14

    Hello, I stumbled across your blog today when i was searching for info on SAS. Like you i have just started SAS and i’m trying to get my head around the different methods and style of teaching. Sometimes i feel like i’ll never get there! I am British so i have found learning a new language from scratch very difficult. I have a blog too (which i find helps when i write things down) We are actually house hunting in the part of Sweden where you are so any advice on which areas are good or ones we should avoid i’d be really grateful. We are in Stockholm now and until my husband got his new job i wasn’t really aware of that town and now we are moving there! Thanks, Heather

    Ps your blog is great by the way!

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Apr 27, 2013 @ 12:09:28

      Hi Heather! SAS is a whole different experience than SFI, but I’ve just learned to focus on doing it all myself. I guess its hard because with so many people from so many different countries and educations and levels, you just have to work at your own speed at this point. I hope it works out for you though!

      Are you moving to Halmstad specifically? Its really a nice place to live, especially if you are near centrum and not on the outskirts away from where everything is. It’s not a huge town, but its a tourist town which gets very busy in the summer! It’ll feel very different from Stockholm, but its relaxing with lots of stores and restaurants. The only neighborhood I can say is “bad” (by Swedish standards) is andersberg which is basically all immigrants and is a little different than the rest of the city. The closer you can be to centrum, the better. Really, anything between the university and centrum is within a good distance. Where is your husbands new job? I hope you enjoy it here!

      Reply

  53. Natalie Martin
    Apr 19, 2013 @ 15:44:37

    Hi,

    I hope you don’t mind me getting in touch; however we are currently looking for some people to join us as mystery diners in Sweden and are looking for those that dine out on a regular basis and have good written skills.

    Because of your blog I thought it may be of interest to you and some of your network to join. We have a couple of visits in the next few weeks and several visits available in the area on an ongoing basis.

    As with all mystery visits our clients pay for all reimbursements in return for a report on your visit. If this sounds of interest then please do get in touch or visit our website http://www.mysterydining.net. Feel free to forward this on to your friends and family and encourage them to sign up as well.

    If you would like any further information then please do get in touch.

    Kind regards,

    Natalie

    Natalie Martin | Business Consultant | HospitalityGEM | Kings Court, Parsonage Lane, Bath, BA1 1ER | +44 (0)1225 470999 | http://www.hospitalitygem.com
    From 2013, The Mystery Dining Company will trade as HospitalityGEM, supporting restaurants, pubs, hotels and caterers with a range of Guest Experience Management services and software

    Reply

  54. Lor
    Apr 27, 2013 @ 11:47:27

    Love reading your blog, I too met my bf on a game, he is Swedish (Lives in Västerås but is from Eskilstuna originally) and I plan on moving there once I complete my English degree.

    Reply

  55. Lor
    May 03, 2013 @ 00:26:41

    Warhammer online, am there pretty much every moment I can get. I really love the country. :)

    Reply

  56. miya
    Jun 11, 2013 @ 08:26:31

    Hi Meg, would like to ask you a favor. Can you give me a reference for a good online cake shop at halmstad ? I am from Indonesia and would love to give surprise for my bf that lives in halmstad since his bday will be on July 29th. Appreciate so much for the help. Tack so mycket.

    Reply

    • megalagom
      Jun 11, 2013 @ 08:32:54

      Hi Miya – how sweet of you :) The main bakery in town is called Ostras Bröd (there are several locations). Here is the link to their website’s cake section (Tårtor) http://www.ostrasbrod.com/tartor.html#75 Unfortunately I don’t see them delivering. There are tons of small bakeries as well, but I doubt any of them deliver and it would depend WHERE in Halmstad he is :) That is your safest bet. Good luck!

      Reply

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