We're in Sweden!

Robin and I were met at the airport by Don and Eros.  Eros is a wonderful host and tour guide.  His knowledge of Swedish history is amazing.  During the drive from Arlanda to Uppsala he pointed out landmarks and offered interesting information.

We settled into the house with Linda and Don.  Linda prepared a Mexican dinner for us and we ate outside at the picnic table.  Chris and Eros and Donnie and Linda Lapoma joined Linda, Don Robin and I.  It was a wonderful beginning to our time here in Sweden.

Our neighborhood in Uppsala

Robin and Eros

Everyone here rides a bike!

Yesterday was Midsummer celebration.  Eros prepared a wonderful picnic for us of traditional midsummer food.  We had various types of pickled herring, cheese, crackers, geezer mix traditional and a vegetarian version (of Eros' creation that was really good!), potatoes, sparkling water, beer and Aquavit!  We caught the train into Stockholm and took a cab to Skansen.  Skansen is an outdoor museum on the island of Djurgarden in Stockholm.  It was founded in 1891 to show the different ways of life in various regions of Sweden.  It's like walking back into Swedish history; it really gives you a feel for how the people lived in 19th century Sweden.

Train Station in Stockholm

 

Skansen

We got our picnic set up as close to the maypole as possible. First the pole is decorated with flowers by people in traditional costume, then the pole is raised, which takes a bit of effort and time to accomplish.  Once the pole has been raised and secured, the barriers put up to keep out the masses are removed and everyone rushes out toward the maypole  where the dancing begins!  There is music playing and much revelry.  The dances and the songs are silly and everyone has great fun.  It goes on for hours!  Legend says that if you pick 7 or 9 different species of flowers and place them under your pillow you will dream of your future spouse or loved one.  There are also stories about the dew on midsummer having healing powers and other things that I don't remember!

 

 We had taken a cab from the train station out to Skansen because our picnic was heavy but we decided to walk back.  This gave us the opportunity to see some of the beautiful city of Stockholm. We were quite tired by the time we returned to our temporary home in Uppsala about 10:00 pm.  It was a great day!  Thank you Eros!!!