Home again, home again, jiggity, jig!

Well, I didn't quite cry all the way home ... but almost!  We had a wonderful good-bye dinner with our "host family" - that is, the family of one of my colleagues at KTH, who were instrumental in our adjustment to and enjoyment of Stockholm.  Aaric was there to meet and entertain their three children and, in spite of the age differences, they had a great time together!  It was wonderful to get to know all of them better, and spend the evening comparing Sweden and Canada, from income tax to crime stats!  

It is not hard to tell I am back in the craziness that is my life here in Okotoks.  No time to blog, or call important friends and relatives (sister, brother, Janice, etc. - you know who you are!).  Work is particularly burdensome, as the economic challenges have had a serious impact on education - we are struggling to do all we believe we have always done/should do with fewer and fewer resources.


Last pictures from Sweden coming soon  but camera is MIA ;-(.  I'm sure it is in the post-trip clutter here somewhere.


Hope you are all rested and well.


Blessings,
TPP

We are in the home stretch!

We are in the home stretch!  We are ready to go home ... but will miss the people and the great sights we've come to enjoy. Tonight we met a young man from California who came to play baseball here 3 years ago - and never left!  We can see why!


We've continued our castle hunting and museum hopping!  Stockholm has a fabulous science technology museum - here are the guys standing by a motor that had them talking cars for a long time. 

And Aaric by the newest bug ....

I am still the quiet one!

Stockholm is notably socially progressive; this museum has an entire exhibit paying tribute to women and tech innovation - hurray!

See that scarf?  Don't leave home without one .... if you are ever headed this way.  


Blessings,
TPP

A pleasant day enjoying Stockholm

Aaric was up in the early morning Sweden time ... talking via Facebook to special friend Becca, who is in Great Britain!  By the time we got up, he was really ready to experience the breakfast banquet we enjoy every morning.  I'm down to fruit, vegetables and half an egg (too many calories in a super-size breakfast everyday) but  Aaric got to dig in.  Breakfast of pancakes, cold cuts, eggs, yogurt, and multiple glasses of juice.  It took about an hour and a half of eating and visiting to get through breakfast.  We are reconnected!


We took a drive out in the country, enjoying the mountainous scenery that reminds us so much of home.  This is complete with signs of 'moose crossing' and 'deer on road' like the highway to Banff!  We stopped back at Skokloster Castle to have lunch again.  A nice walk by a scenic lake - but a little chilly and windy to stroll for long.


Then the big event - we finally made it to Vasa Museum!  Absolutely everyone has recommended it and they were so right - this is a mind-boggling overview of the building, sinking and restoration of a Swedish War Ship!  See the whole story at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasa_%28ship%29 or http://www.vasamuseet.se/en/.  Here is a photo of this famous ship - restored after 330 years in the ocean!

We walked around this monumental artifact of human error (which caused the ship to sink) and human expertise (that found it, got it off the ocean floor and pieced it back together).  12 cables, each 6 inches in diameter, were pushed under the ship after tunnels were blown out under the wreck.  It was raised over 150 feet.  14,000 pieces of the ship were recovered from the ocean floor around the ship.  These pieces, plus all the artifacts on the ship, were cleaned, repaired and restored!


I wanted to know about the human experience, who died and who got back to shore.  There are no accurate records of this part of the event:  135-200 are estimated to have been on the ship.  The skeletal remains of approximately 30 humans were found on the ship. Otherwise, this no record of who lived to tell the story of the ship's short and only voyage.


Here is Aaric by an anchor outside, and he and his dad in front of the ship.

Across from the Vasa Museum - the Noridska Museum (Swedish cultural archives) is across the road.  The building is awestriking: 

Guess what my guys are doing now?  Napping .... Then it will be off to pizza for dinner - Aaric's pick!


Blessings,
TTP

Aaric arrives!

It was another busy week of 'guest teaching', meetings to talk about research and writing research proposals.  Outside of work Stuart and I continued our walking, visiting the stable, and began shopping for gifts to take home.  We continue to be amazed at how much this feels like home; the weather never does what forecasters say it will, and it snows in April!  And everyone complains about snow in Spring!


We had lunch with the professor who arranged for my stay - he is at home on 'required' paternity leave!  Yes, you read it right!  Swedish fathers must take 60 days off work and stay home with each child before he/she turns eight years old.  Here is my now friend and colleague Stefan with 15 month old Vida:

Can't miss those Swedish blue eyes!


We could hardly sit still today waiting for Aaric to come - and he didn't come in till dinner time!  But arrive he did - so the three traveling musketeers are together again!  Aaric proudly displayed his stamp from customs that showed Sweden on it!  "Soon I'll need a new passport" he said!  I am so pleased we've been able to travel together to Spain (three times), England, France, Germany, Netherlands, Portugal, Poland, Hungary, Brazil and Argentina!  And sometimes we were able to convince Ashley to come - the four musketeers!  In any case, we are so blessed.

 

It is Easter week-end and Sweden celebrates!  We plan to go driving in the country to count castles ;-), hunt for Swedish style  painted Easter eggs, attend our 'English' church and have dinner with new-found friends who kindly invited us for Easter Sunday dinner.  We will miss the rest of our family this sacred week-end but are ready to connect through Skype!  

Blessings to you all this holy week-end of hope and renewal,

TPP 

the duke and duchess of Prila Oolsf

Well, we did it. We made an offer on a castle. We were out for a drive today and came across a small castle on an acre of land. It is quite large and quite run down. As a result no one wanted it. The Swedish folks feel like they are a bit of a burden as it is a historic site so there are a number of rules and regulation as to what changes you can make. It is really interesting! It has a courtyard with building on three sides. Tree lined gravel driveway. The center wing has been maintained and is in good shape, both side wings need to be refurbished.

The castle was built sometime in the 1700s and was owned by the Royal family in Sweden. The agent advised that because the property was owned by the Royal family there are obligations and privileges we would have to abide by. These are from the 17 th century so some of them don’t seem to be logical. Anything with the royal emblem on it cannot be removed or changed and there are numerous things, chandeliers, door handles, tiles on the floor etc. most of which we won’t want to change, however, we expect there will be times when this will be a pain. The most interesting part is because it is a royal property we get titles. The duke and duchess of Prila Oolsf. As owners our names will be in the Royal Registries in the Royal Palace here in Stockholm.

So many interesting experiences here in Sweden.

The duke and duchess of Prila Oolsf, tuartS & artiM

Anyone else have insomnia?

Wow - the end of a very busy week!  I met with many interesting people this week, including two groups of students.  It is really a treat to be in the same room with your students - just for a change.  There are many things you can't do - surf the net for info when you need it, record what you are doing, text, blog, etc.  But you can be silent for a moment ... and just connect.  I discussed meaningful interaction with one group, and human presence with another.  Clever, polite, engaged students.  How lucky I am!


Stuart spends his time relaxing, walking reading.  He looks so healthy!  His knee was bothering him, so he had to take some of the meds the doc gave him .... better now. 


It's almost one a.m. our time and sleep alludes me.  Stuart, on the other hand, is quietly sleeping behind me!  I'm sure there is ongoing benefit to having a Mom who put you to bed and treated you to a whack with a wooden spoon if you got up. 


Tomorrow we can rest.  We are invited for dinner at the home of one of the staff/PhD students at KTH.  How kind they are to invite us.  Sunday we have lunch with another staff member, after the service at our 'English Church.'  So blessed we are, and so kind are the people we have met.

It's the halfway point!   Amazing!  It was raining today and I stood for a moment outside the university to breath in the moisture and the wonderful smell of rain.  I also took a minute to look around and drink it all in as soon it will  be a memory, almost a dream.  I want to remember this experience - vividly!

Time will evaporate now as we try to get in everything we said we would do on this visit.  Aaric comes one week from today - we will so glad to see him!  


Blessings,
TPP

Over the 1/3 mark!

This is day 12 of our 30 days here!  Already!  Let's see - we made friends at church, at the school and at the stable.  We have an eating, sleeping, exercising routine established. We have plans for when our friend from Spain gets here and when Aaric arrives.  We know the landscape and have favorite restaurants.  Hmmm ... a productive, enjoyable 12 days.


We've been castle hopping!  Amazing old buildings that speak to a long and noble history in Sweden.  We can't see inside as they are closed until May 1st.  But the grounds and the spirit around them is stunning!  And we were able to go in far enough to patronize the restaurants that are open all year for lunch!  Here are some photos to tease - more info later.

Off to bed as I have a terrible cold ;-( and Stu's knee is acting up!  Have to rest as we've been invited out for lunch at one place, and dinner at another, on Sunday! 


Blessings,
TPP

A yawning Saturday

A whole day with nothing that has to be done!  What a rarity and privilege.  We filled it with lazy, slow activities of no value other than enjoyment!


We agreed it had to be a frugal day as last night we had our first meal in a Swedish restaurant, one recommended by the staff at the hotel.  Perhaps my fancy new cane gave them an incorrect estimate of our means - the restaurant was absolutely fabulous but extreme in cost!  Here is a photo of us there, take by a friendly waiter.  We are still smiling here as the food had arrived, looked incredible, but the bill hadn't!

 

This morning we arose slowly, and got downstairs to breakfast just in time!  It was a lovely day,  so walking as much as possible was a first goal.  We headed for "Old Town" Stockholm, an island in the middle of what is now the modern city.  Buildings first erected in as early as 1290 can be viewed there - awe-striking!  This church is closed at the moment; given it's base structure is 722 years old, we were not surprised!  I touched the outside in multiple places, thinking of all the other humans that must have done so over all those years.  The stone has a notable spirit to it!

We walked for a time along the water, noting that there were only low (18") bars to prevent one from spilling in to the water!  We determined that Swedish children must be very quiet creatures, or parents very relaxed!  Here is the main man, happy to be beside the water.  Behind him are the buildings of Old Town Stockholm.

 

Next to the palace!  What a palace it is!  It was such a gorgeous day we opted not to go in this time - but will definitely see this before we leave.  Swedish Royalty used to be voted in by all the King's Men!  Related or not, the best man for the job used to be voted in.  It is not that way now, and the heir to the throne is a Princess - the current King's daughter.

It was time for some lunch and a break from walking (for me)!  We decided to pick a small restaurant in a residential area to reduce costs and support Swedish small business.  Found a quaint corner cafe, very busy with locals and pictures for the menu.  Very helpful, especially when the proprietor can speak little English.  As always he was helpful and gracious, and the food fresh and tasty!

From here we went to Sweden's largest second hand store, which turned out to be right down the road!  Oh my goodness!  If we only had a way to bring home the antique sewing machines, the beautiful vases and plates, and lovely furniture.  

Next it was on a quest to find a McDonald's coffee - even in Sweden where they value and support the local economy and multinationals are much rarer than elsewhere.   I had lasted this long but today was the day.  Stuart patiently drove to the locations the gps told us to until one actually worked!  With a McDonald's coffee in hand, off to the stable we went to walk the aisles and pet the horses.  A heavenly activity for me.  And Stuart befriended the local stable manager, who chatted with him about cars and life in general.  Here is one of the friendliest horses I have ever met - he absolutely loved the soft fur on my cuffs.  Another treasure I would gladly bring home if I could find a way ;-):

And that is how Stuart and I spend a quiet Saturday in Sweden ..... ;-).

Cheers,

TPP

Getting better all the time

Put Stockholm, Sweden on your 'must-see' list! I can't say it was on ours, but now that we are here, we would definitely desire a return trip.  We are planning a short water cruise when Aaric gets here and this is a promotion picture.  It is this stunning ... beautiful old buildings mixed with modern/postmodern public places and spaces.  And, as you my have guessed, this is sailing country - which makes Stuart very happy.

People like each other here.  And what social skills.  Now here is something you can all relate to.  Today I needed my office computer hooked up to the printer down the hall.  I asked our admin assistant for the number of the help desk.  She said she would get it and would bring it to my office - in English that is much better than my Swedish - but somewhat elementary.  The next thing I know, there is a bespectacled young man with a plastic pocket cover at my door , asking if he could help me.  I was confused and hesitated - with the printer? he asked.  Oh! I exclaimed - yes, I have something to print and couldn't find the cable.  He actually didn't laugh at me but politely told me it was all wireless (this is the Royal Institute of Technology) and started clicking away on the computer.  They actually dispatch people to you and provide assistance - real human assistance!  And that's not all!  He talked to me - the IT guy talked.  He asked where I was from, how long I would be in Stockholm and welcomed me to Sweden.  When he left he shook my hand - actually touched me - and said to call the tech desk if I needed anything else during my stay.  My stay could be getting longer!

I've decided they all look to have high cheek bones and rosy pink cheecks for a reason - they smile alot!  This must build the muscles of the mid-face and increases blood flow to the cheeks.  I'm going to try this! They look younger, too ....

We found the stable by the university today - happy day.   It's on the King' land ;-).  I patted and talked to a horse that lives in the King's stable - wow!  I wonder if he knows?  The horse I mean ... that his lives in the King's stable?  Pictures coming ....


I been working, working, working and Stuart's been walking, walking walking!  Oh, I forgot eating, eating, eating.  We have a great rhythm going already.  Amazing how you can adjust.  We are happy and having fun.

Cheers,
TPP

more than I dreamed it would be ......

Everyone should have the opportunity to be invited somewhere where they are valued - even for a brief moment in time.  Here is my new office ... they put flowers on the table to welcome me!  Flowers! I am honored and humbled!  Here is the view from my office window:

A bricks and mortar campus - nice for a change!  One of the profs invited Stuart and I over for dinner tonight.  Absolutely lovely family.  We had delicious, healthy meal  and wonderful conversation.  We will see them again when Aaric arrives. 


We have landed in a wonderful place!  Did I mention that Sunday was "Mothering Day"?  Not Mother's Day - as too many aren't mothers, never had a mother, or did and no longer have mothers.  But Mothering Day!  Really!  You celebrate the mothering you have given and have received, in all senses of the word.  And all those people who have mothered you and you have mothered.  I love it!  It could get used to this kind, generous perspective .....


Love and blessings,
Marti

hi, ho; hi, ho; it's off to work I go!

Had a great day at work!  These are great people and the opportunities for collaborative, valuable projects are everywhere!  Tired, tired!  Need more sleep in a serious way - so I'm off to bed. Some trouble at home made last night a fitful night.  Sounds like it is under control - what great kids we have ;-). 

More tomorrow,

Blessings,
TPP

another great day in Stockholm

What fun it would be if you all were here, too!  Had a great sleep and wandered down for breakfast; so wonderful to have everything made for you, including great coffee!  Chatting often with those around us, and making sure to clarify that we are Canadians ... we find many assume we are from below the 49th.  Too complicated to explain to them the story of being born there, unless I have my American passport in my hand.  ;-).  


We found an "English Church" - a protestant congregation that invites all to come from any denomination worshiping Christ, and the service is totally in English.  You are, of course, invited to say the Lord's Prayer in any language you choose!  It was totally enjoyable, well except that they served communion and everyone drinks from the same cup!  Don't they know about germs from lips in that juice!  We had to pass on that, even though they wipe the rim.  ;-).

We stayed for coffee where we met many ex-pats from many places. Stockholm appears to be a place where people come from far lands - and stay.  Hmmm...... I'm thinking.


Today we had dinner at a fabulous Indian restaurant - seriously!  Then walked the KTH campus and scoped out where I'll be meeting with people tomorrow.  I heard I have an office with a view.  Maybe that's the way they try to lure women here to stay - they have very few woman on staff.  Could be interesting ....


More later .....
TTP

the adventure begins

We had a fabulous day!  Started with European style breakfast buffet, part of the package when staying here.  Cold meats and fish, cheese, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereal, a bread buffet of its own, three kinds of eggs, sausage, bacon, and pancakes.  We stayed for a long time!  The room was full of people of all ages, from everywhere it seemed.  All kept to themselves, unless you engaged them ... and then they were happy to smile, chat, answer questions.

After breakfast we went in search of a book store; a Swedish-English dictionary is not essential but deemed helpful.  Our first discovery was that the GPS visual cues and oration didn't match, and at times the visuals were accurate, at times the voice.  The technology is great when it works! The adventure took us many beautiful places, and then accidentally to a bookstore!  We got our dictionary and found out that the Swedish love Jane Austin! We also learned that you have to pay to use a public toilet, and the lines-ups are long.  Scheduling our bio-breaks to be at home is now routine.

Yes, we are calling our little hotel apartment home.  My friend Mary says "when you are at peace with yourself, any place is home!"   This is home for the moment, and we are comfortable here.  Had lunch at a fabulous Greek restaurant (sitting in Sweden eating Hungarian and Greek food) that was friendly, cozy with excellent fare.  Then off for groceries, nap and resting.  Great day!


Here are some pictures:


Stopped at KTH for a moment. Stunning buildings from 1827 when the college was initiated.  

 

Made Stuart's day to see ships and boats in the harbour.  This is a restaurant on the water that is now on our "must-see" list.

Government building and one of many historical statues; this is Karl XIV Johan 1786-1854.  There is a woman at the foot of this statue - rare. 

Think of us with guacamole and chips, a Shandy (me) and a nice, cold beer (Stu). 


Cheers,
TPP

we are here ....

... had a great flight and arrived happy and safe.  Stuart's happy because drinks are free on all international flights ;-)!  And I'm glad we are finally here.  And feel great - probably because I slept upright on both planes!  My own CCSVI treatment. 


Had dinner at a Hungarian restaurant in downtown Stockholm! We LOVED the food when we were in Budapest last year so were happy to enjoy it again.  Everyone is beautiful, beautifully fit and speaks English beautifully.  Puts us to shame!


Time for bed to adjust to new time zone,
TPP

At long last, the adventure begins ....

.... in three sleeps!  We are leaving the acreage, the dogs AND all the kids behind to go to Stockholm.  I am working for the Royal Institute of Technology there - for one month. This is the first of six one-month trips there over the next three years - so it better be fun!  Thankfully, Stuart's work is flexible enough that he can come with me and share this experience.


This time we are staying in a studio hotel room as Stockholm is high-density, and it takes 14 months on the waiting list to get a 'scholars apartment' for a month.  Luckily we don't have to shoulder the costs - and we don't have to clean or cook for this brief time ;-).  It's not the Fairmont, but our hotel is clean and close to the school. http://www.venere.com/best-western/stockholm/hotel-time/


Aaric is staying in a variety of places - including at home with Ashley and the dogs, his friend's house and possibly the Hayter/Innes condo at Kimberley.  Then he flies solo to Stockholm on April 5th to join us for the last ten days.  I will be SOOOO glad to see him .... we've hardly traveled without him!


We have hit that age where annoying but not yet serious health issues  are creeping up.  I have hypercalcium and some of the problems associated with that and Stuart has high uric acid - leading to occasional bouts of gout!  Luckily, Sweden has an excellent health care system .... we expect to come back healthier than when we left!


More soon,
TPP