only bad clothes. The Swedes do not let rain, or cold, or snow, or ice, or darkness stop them. One has a long raincoat, a lined raincoat, a breathable raincoat, a super-light raincoat..... you get the picture. Totally admirable coming from a society where people caught in the rain can't even get to their cars from Tim's.
Friday was moving day. We had to be out of the apartment by 11, so Sham and all our luggage hung out at the central station while the rest of us watched the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace. We were fortunate that the regiment currently on duty is a mounted regiment, complete with a mounted band -- one of only two in the world, according to Ian. The pomp and pagentry was magnificent, interesting the kids for the whole 45 minute presentation.
The changing of the guard was right on time, but the train to Gavle was delayed. However, we, and all our luggage, arrived in Gavle and were met by Richard and Jennie. Their house is wonderful. It is a combination of Swedish efficiency (hot water heated by the city system!), the loving touches of the former owners (stained glass accents and triple pane windows), and Jennie's superb artistic talent (repainting of walls for a lovely bright living room that feels like you are sitting in the garden). Joanna and family are conveniently lodged in the lower level suite, cleverly separated by curtains. Ian and I are upstairs (in a gorgeous bedroom given up by Richard and Jennie who have moved into Richard's study for the week), beside the office room. The kitchen accommodates two tables and 8 people very comfortably, not even encroaching upon the cooking and prep area. There is a huge back porch off the deck and a lovely garden beyond.
Saturday was Hogobo day -- it being 25 km away and we only having the extra car for this weekend. This is a lovely area featuring small lakes, walking (and skiing) trails, boats for hire, artisans working on site, a hotel, cottages, a cafeteria and a wonderful restaurant. We all spent the afternoon and then Joanna, Sham and kids went home for pasta supper while Ian, Jennie, Richard and I have a fantastic meal which culminates in a cheese board and then dessert buffet of some of the most interesting flavour combinations -- all done in tiny amounts.
Today was Ikea visit and there are some subtle differences -- had to have the silicone gloves which I have never seen at home.
And Jennie and Richard have a garden. There is all the excitement of seeing what comes up in a new garden and trying to identify as desirable or weed, some of the large clumps. Raspberries have a prominent spot and there are pockets of herbs amongst the flowers. Delightful.
It's been sun and rain and sprinkle, but we are trying to adopt that Swedish motto -- no bad weather, just bad clothes!
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