Into the Forest

I first met Roland last year, on my daily walk to the lake. He bought the house, took down the for sale sign and started the renovation work. We shared coffee, beer and conversation. He invited me to stay if I returned, and in the spring this year duly reminded me. So here I am, with Roland's spare room. A huge flag pole stands in the centre of the big front lawn, as is typical here. The sun is shining and the forest is full of bird song.

Forest people live at a slower pace and that is just fine for me. It honestly only took until lunchtime Monday to recover from the traffen. It is impossible to stay stressed in this wonderful location. I have fallen into familiar Fagerhult habits. A long walk to the lake, sun on my face and the scent of pine in my nose. Simple pleasures. An apple and a bottle of water while I sit on the lake shore looking out over this massive lake. It is bigger than any in northern italy. Sailing boat ply the silver blue expanse. Part time skippers enjoying an early summer afternoon. Please let it be like this for the holiday at the weekend and our midsommer fest.

I spoke to mum. It's been a while. I feel so much stronger now. Time heals.

I stopped by and said hello to Lars and Janet who's stugar I used last year. That resulted in a dinner invitation for myself and Roland who is an old friend of theirs. Stephan also stopped by to say hello. Returning to this sleepy village was a good idea. Salve for the soul.