It's Friday, but I have to go back in time with my story. ( have no clue when we'll catch up)

Tuesdays excursion went to Astrid Lindgren's park, and Mom and Lotta started a competition on who was better at remembering things from a long long time ago. (That's what old people do)When they were about 8 years old they were in a school play, where Mom was Pippi and Lotta the teacher Prussiluskan.I would have given anything for a picture from that time, it was almost 60 years ago !!!!

Anyway, the park was gorgeous, with all the fairy tales represented in a miniature format. Not as elaborate as Disney's parks, but there was way more interactive stuff for kids to do and fantasize about. Mom actually tried the stilts, and she managed pretty good for an old lady.

Astrid Lindgren (14 November 1907 – 28 January 2002) was a Swedish writer of fiction and screenplays. She is best known for children's book series featuring Pippi Longstocking, Emil i Lönneberga, Karlsson-on-the-Roof, and the Six Bullerby Children (Children of Noisy Village in the US), as well as the children's fantasy novels Mio min Mio, Ronia the Robber's Daughter and The Brothers Lionheart.
As of May 2013, she is the world's 18th most translated author and the third most translated children's writer after H. C. Andersen and the Grimm brothers. Lindgren has sold roughly 144 million books worldwide.

By 2012 Astrid Lindgren's books had been translated into 95 different languages. Further, the first chapter of Ronja the Robber's Daughter has been translated into Latin. Up until 1997 there had internationally been issued a total of 3000 editions of her books, and globally her books had sold a total of 150 million pieces. Many of her books have been translated to English by the translator Joan Tate.
In 1976, a scandal arose in Sweden when it was publicized that Lindgren's marginal tax rate had risen to 102%. The news item led to a stormy tax debate. In the parliamentary election later in the same year, the Social Democrat government was voted out for the first time in 44 years, and the Lindgren tax debate was one of several controversies that may have contributed to this result.Yet Lindgren remained a Social Democrat for the rest of her life.

This pretty lady was selling waffles, the best ever both Mom and Lotta said. The strawberry jam was homemade and absolutely delicious.  

Lindgren was well known both for her support for children's and animal rights and for her opposition to corporal punishment. In 1994, she received the Right Livelihood Award, "For her commitment to justice, non-violence and understanding of minorities as well as her love and caring for nature.

the flowers in the park were covered in pollen, and the lilac's in full bloom, not the greatest for Mom's allergy.

When we've seen enough of the park we drove a small country road through the forest to have a picknick Lotta had prepared.
This tree is more than 1,000 years old and it is 14 meters (46 ft) high, with a trunk approximately 13 meters (43 ft) in circumference and a volume of approximately 60 cubic meters (78 cu yd), making it one of the largest trees in Sweden.

There was an iron band around the trunk to support it, thought to have been put there in the 19th century. It was partially replaced after being cut in 2005 by someone who said he wanted to "free" the tree. It was replaced in 2013 by an arborist. A chain a little higher up prevents the trunk from splitting; the tree is now completely hollow. Climbing has been forbidden since 1998 and there is a fence around the tree, going closer than 5 meters (16 ft) is not permitted ? Mom broke that rule when she placed one of her little ladybugs in the hollow. Hope we don't get into trouble since my address is on the back. In any event, I'll deny, deny and deny any knowledge of this law breaking.
The hollow trunk of the tree was the location for sex scenes in I Am Curious (Yellow), a 1967 film by Vilgot Sjöman. The film was controversial when first released, including being banned in Massachusetts; in a case that went all the way to the Supreme Court of the United States, it was ultimately determined not to be obscene. Haha, no wonder Swedish woman had a reputation in the older days

After a long day out and about, Lotta made a delicious spinach pie and served with a great salad.
Not something I care for, but it didn't matter since Lotta had picked up some great treats for me at the supermarket. They tasted pretty close to those that Max, my neighbor used to give me.

After supper we were so exhausted we fell asleep and missed the dessert of strawberries and ice cream...........

If the PC connection stays this good where we are now,I'll make Mom continue this story after a bike ride.          where we are ? I give you a clue, we have been here with Adrienne, and it's an island. 

later alligator 

It's Wednesday already, and I'm a little upset with Mom that she keeps insisting on going to places in the country where the WiFi connection is almost nonexisting, but Lotta's place have everything else tat we like, so you dear friends have to be patient and wait until we once again get back to a city with decent connections.
Anyway, let me start where I left off.

Monday morning Gosta and I managed to manipulate Mrs. Sorensen to empty the fridge and give us all the goodies. It wasn't all that difficult she's a sucker for us cute hairy kids, and for a change Mom didn't interfere, and let me eat all the treats handed to me.

Lucy had a broken light bulb which Mom had not noticed, but Lennart who's a truck driver immediately noticed and wanted to fix it. Too bad there's no store that sells them here in the village (as a matter fact, there are no stores at all here) so that's something Mom has to fix as soon as we get back to civilization.

Since Mrs. Sorensens fridge is emptied it's time to get on the road and look for one that's filled up, so on the road we went, and driving south to next destination, which is Lottas and Morris house.

Here again, we're being served a great breakfast and a delicious supper. I thought that maybe we should have a TVshow, where we visit and talk about the food being cooked at all of our friends' houses. Heaven knows there's a million of cooking shows on Swedish television already, so one more wouldn't hurt, but ours would be the greatest since I could give a different perspective on the flavors. Mom says I don't taste the food since I just devour every piece I get in record speed...........what does she know anyway ?

Finally, a real summer day with temperatures over 60, so and Mom and I relaxed in the sun, and lo and behold it was actually getting too hot to lay there so I had to look for a shady spot. 

We went for walks in the woods and Morre came along, just like Lilly always does. Pretty cool even if he's not willing to walk paw to paw with me.

We came to a house where this strange animal lived. I couldn't for my life figure out what was the front or the back. As soon as I tried to sniff one end, the darn thing turned around and went the other way ? It didn't have a scent I recognized so I gave him a very loud piece of my mind. Strangely enough, it didn't seem to be affected by my barking at all ?
Mom finally had to carry me away from it.

walks around here is very nice, something we've been doing several times. Here's Lotta's friend joining us. Unfortunately, there are billions of ticks here, and even tough I'm on a pill that makes them not wanting to suck my blood, they still take a ride on me, and Mom is disgusted about the thought they'll migrate on to her. ............so take a pill I say ???  only made for dogs she says..........

 There's a lot more to tell, but this short piece has taken all morning to upload pictures, so Mom tells me I have to wait until we find a better WiFi connection..........Hmmm.....where have I heard that before ? 

Tuesday morning my stomach was making some awful noises, so I had an awful feeling about not getting any treats but no worries, I'm fine now.

We had a long busy day, but I'll tell you tomorrow I hope.

We're still at the small paper mill village but last night the smell from the mill was replaced with a heavenly scent from Birgitte's kitchen,as she made Mom's favorite pork roast. Unfortunately, this brought out a  side of Mom I didn't know she had,and it's greed..................Thank heaven Birgitte noticed and fixed it.................... 

Mom said not to waste those good pieces on me, she said I don't savor the taste like she does ?
That's Bullsh##, Sarah and I did get our fair share, as Mom trying to save it all for herself, she even stole a piece that Birgitte meant for me, but she fixed her ass and gave me an even bigger piece on HER plate. Hahaha

Mom stuffed herself so she could hardly move or breathe after supper, too bad she didn't listen to my offer to help out.

Breakfast was pretty amazing too, according to Mom. I don't care much for herring...but she could have shared the eggs..........

We visited Mrs.Sorensen and usually,she immediately goes to the fridge when she sees me, but this time I had competition in cuteness.Anita is the Mom and his name is Gosta. I met him before, and we're about the same age and according to Mom equally spoiled.

we do get along just fine, but neither one of us are much into running around the house playing, so relaxing on the couch getting hugged is not a bad life. 

 Gostas Mom had made a rhubarb pie, and supposedly that was not something I would have liked ? I'm wondering why I couldn't be the judge of that,and at least get a taste?

The cat, Morris are not afraid of me anymore, but she still doesn't let me love her like I love Lilly. I think she's very cute, maybe next time she'll soften up a little.

Apple trees are in bloom, and very pretty.

Birgitte has a very nice garden, beautiful flowers and a lot of  plants Mom can't have in Florida.

well, dandelions are probably  flowers that exist all over the world and are considered a weed in most places. Not sure I understand that? the flower is pretty.

Not much is happening around here, it's quiet and relaxing. Weather could definitely be better but at least it isn't raining, and we do get a little sun in between the clouds.

All is well, 

Kisses for all Buttons

Finally, Lucy is ready for the road, she now has a new carpet and cushions. Elvy sewed some beautiful neck cushions to put on top of the chairs. (not in this picture) Mom is very pleased to sit more comfortable, but they do nothing for me.

Lucy also needed some rubber seal for the toilet, which was ordered and put in place.Most expensive       little doodad ever. Everything is coming together real nicely and Mom is finally getting over the 6-hour time change.

It's not very warm, so for a short moment, I felt we should go back to Florida, but Mom promised,it'll get better.

 
One afternoon they left me in the car and went for brunch. Look at the pizza Mom had ? and that's supposed to be for one person ? Can't say everything is bigger in the USA, at least not in this case.

We had a gorgeous sunny day, not super warm, but good enough for a rest in the easy chair.

This wildflower is one of the first to bloom in spring, one of Moms favorites

Swedish men are very inventive, and even though we have never seen a car on this contraption, it sure looks very practical and sturdy.

Mom and Elvy looking in magazines and girlie chatting about outfits of the rich and famous

The weather stinks rain rain rain and still a little chilly. According to the weather rapport, it's going to be warmer tomorrow. Hope they're right, because Mom says if it doesn't get warmer we're driving to Spain, and that's sounds a little scary to me since I've never  been there. On the other hand, what choice do I have?  Mom doesn't always listen to me, and I mostly go along with whatever crazy ideas she has, except when it comes to this motorcycle stuff. That's where I draw the line, no way, no how, is she getting me on one of those things, and neither is she. I don't want to be an orphan.

Friday afternoon we said our goodbyes and "see you soon" kisses and went on our way driving south. From the window, we saw 2 moose crossing the road, but there was nowhere to stop and take pictures, and they went into the woods pretty quickly anyway.
My first thought when I saw this figure I said "Oh this is where Lincoln went", but at closer look I realized the mustache and the beard weren't the same........then again, maybe it turned white when he became older ?

The destination was the little village where Sorensen family lives. I knew it before we arrived as soon as I got a whiff of the air since there's a paper mill there and occasionally it smells funny. It's a great opportunity to let go of some stomach gasses without getting the blame.

Here we are at Sara's house, and she's the same kiss up girl as last time we met.The kitty didn't want to bother with me this time either ? what's up with that ?

Saras Mom Birgitte made an awesome supper, well at least that's what Mom said, I didn't get a taste so I can't judge, but it smelled real good. 

Sara had the nerve to plop herself in MY Mom's lap not that I care much, I know she'll never trade me for anybody else, nor would she sell me for all money in the world..................

It's now Saturday morning, and there are a few blue patches on the sky, so maybe, just maybe we'll have a nice sunny day.

All is well, look out for tomorrows update 

Goodmorning.
Finally I got Mom to help me to update my story. She has been so busy taking care of Lucy,so I've been feeling very neglected for a couple of days.
As ususal I was on my best behavior on the flight, and slept most of the way. For a little while I was sitting in Moms lap, but it got too warm, so I prefered my bag on the floor. Flight was late landing in Oslo, and the connecting flight to Stockholm was closed, at least that's what it said on the board. I did hear Mom saying a bad word reading the flight schedule trying to figure out how long we'll have to wait, and if there was time for me to go outside. All of a sudden a man in uniform comes running and he grab me and Moms bag telling us to hurry up. Mom snatched me back from him thinking he was a dognapper ? but she tried to keep after the man since he had her bag. As we're running he explained that the pilot was waiting for us ? like we were famous celebrites or something. Getting on the plane everybody was in their seats staring at us, but who cares at least we're on time for the train out of Stockholm, or so we thought.
As an after thought, how the dickens did this guy know that we were the missing passengers? I know he was at the same flight as us from Orlando, but we were never introduced ?

After landing in Stockholm we got the suitcases very quickly and everything got loaded on a wagon and Mom pulled it all outside and I found a very nice plot of green grass to do my business.
Than off to the train, and now the difficulties start. It's almost impossible to buy a ticket if you don't have an Iphone. Sweden is very advanced in technologies,and for an old lady like Mom it's not easy, and she's tired and irritated that noone is willing to help her ( I should have done the asking for us ) Finally she managed to buy a ticket from a machine, but the first 2 trains had no seats, so we had a long boring wait before the train arrived.
Mom could hardly pick up her suitcases so a kind man helped, and finally we arrived at our friends station where Ove and Elvy was waiting. Now there was only an hour drive left before the final destination, and I finally got to stretch my legs in a long run.

It's pretty cold here so we slept in Helges cabin the first night. He had prepared with a nice fire in the stove so it was warm and very cosy. It was 1AM Saturday morning Swedish time,(7pm Friday UStime) before we got to bed, and Mom still had trouble sleeping, but I was fine.
Following day it was time to give Lucy attention, and first the waterpump refused to work,it pumped water that never came to the zinks, instead it poured out underneath Lucy and that put a damper on things. Mom saw a big repair bill thinking she had forgotten to empty the hotwater heater for the winter and everything is probably bust. Well, it's weekend and there's nothing to do about it now, since repair places are closed. Second night we slept in Lucy and in the morning Mom decided to read the instruction book, and low and behold, there it shows a saftey switch on the heater that releases if it gets to cold and the water empties..............awesome saftey switch for people who doesn't know what they're doing. Mom loccated the switch and ...........voila everything worked. Hallelujaaaaaaaa

Second issue was a seal on the toilet tank, which was no news Mom had already ordered it, and it was waiting to be installed. Unfortunatley it was a second seal that was needed, (again reading the instruction book) so that's the last fix needed.

Today is nice and sunny Elvy and Ove is having "fika". Temperature is aroud 55, no complains

I'm getting older, and Mom says it shows on my eyes and coat, but I still have the power of hypnotizing some people. One look at Ove and he heads straight to the fridge to find treats, just the way I like it....................woo hooo

This place is a little old fashioned so Mom have to get the water from a well. It's a summer retreat, and it's fun to experience how people used to live a long time ago. We sure have it a lot easier now a days.

The place we are at now, does not have good wifi, so Mom have to drive Lucy in to the village to connect, but it's not so bad. The peaceful atmosfere more than makes up for it and the first morning we heard the coocoo bird and saw 2 deer at the corner of our friends property.........sure is something to be said aboutt living in the country.......

Not sure about any plans for the next few days, I'm probably the last to know, but it doesn't matter as long as I'm not left behind. Not a chance in hell Mom says, where she's going, so am I.
Stay tuned, my story is to be continued.
Buttons

Hellooooo !!! long time no see..................have you missed me ?  Well, here I am again, getting ready to go back to Mom's puppy land. There's been a lot of rushing around these last few days, both Mom and I had to visit our doctors and mine updated my passport. And what Mom did I don't know?

For days, Mom has been packing and unpacking to make sure they weight is right. I have no clue why she would need so much stuff, we have all we need in Lucy, don't we? 

I will miss Lilly, I wish she could come  too, but she would be too scared and make a lot of noise on the plane.

Mom is walking around taking farewell of her orchids 

the "frangi pangi" gave me a bon voyage flower ............

And the datura also gave a goodbye flower

Couple of days ago we went to my store to pick up treats and something to chew on for the trip.

Mom insisted on me trying on a Florida sun hat. She thinks it would be so cute at the airport, and when we land you'll look adorable she says ............I say NO NO NO, end of discussion..........besides, that's a girlie hat........am I right, or am I right ?

Actually, Mom knows about my aversion to clothes, she just can't help herself sometimes, and I suppose she'll expect me to eventually give in...........NO NO NO never

we are ready waiting for our ride to the airport, can't wait to see everybody and I hope the summer weather is coming back.

It's very cold here now, and raining again................so we're getting ready to return to Florida's sun.

We are at the small village where Lucy is going to stay and there's no WIFI where we're staying, so Mom and I went into town just for this message..............

Looking forward seeing all my buddies soon again.

These are blackberries from last week, but since it has been such a cold summer they weren't all ready to eat.............mom seems to like them a lot..........me ? not so much

We also made a quick stop in Mom's favorite small town ASKERSUND, but weather stunk so it wasn't the greatest this time.

We got a giant for company, so big you can get lost in ,or hide real good.....

All Mom is doing now, is getting Lucy ready for winter sleep...................and knitting, and listening to books......................

we're all good, see you next week............

Mom is looking at maps and information about Greece this morning ??? Don't know what that's all about, because for all I know we'll be flying back to Florida in a couple of weeks .............I know she can change her mind in a drop of a hat, but .............I miss Lilly........

We're still at the same place visiting this small village, which has been very peaceful and relaxing,  but I heard a rumor about this being the last day and that we'll be on the road again.................where ? I have no clue. The other day Birgitte made the ham the way Mom remembers from her puppyhood..........I heard a lot of grunting and smacking and mmmmmm..........she forgot to give me a taste !!..........not sure I'll ever forgive that.........

Saturday we went far into the woods ( Mom forgot the name of the village) to a fair and there was a lot of interesting people.........

This guy may be Santa Clause in disguise .........

here's a black smith working hard

Mom bought some cloudberries from this guy....................wonder if she'll remember to give me a taste of that ???

There was also some meatball factories with blankets on, not sure what the blankets was all about, because even if it was a little windy, it wasn't cold. The girls riding them was doing all kinds of tricks and people cheering ? I would have cheered if they had tossed me a meatball...................they didn't and I'm feeling real sorry for me...............again a lot of people had comments about me sitting in my wagon............they're all jealous of course.

Riders was supposed to slice a watermelon in super sonic speed, first girl missed

second girl got distracted and picked up something from the ground

Third girl....................swish swish, melon juice for everybody ................

This guy made waffles, and again Mom ate forgetting about me ?..................Mom is getting so forgetful it's crazy, next she may forget me at rest stop, and than what will happen to me ?? .................

on the way home Birgitte drove on a winding gravel road, and all of a sudden she stopped at garage sales, but there was no garages, or houses ??

Anyway, there was this super cute puppy,(says Mom) a mix between a powderpuff ( like my neighbor Bodi) and a Chihuahua ( like my other neighbor Scooter) ..............he's laughing when Mom tickles his belly..........I didn't care much .....this garage sale concept, seemed weird, really weird, so I stayed in the car

On the way to the fair,  was this cave, and ofcourse there's all kind of stories about it, true or not, who knows...............

Maybe these trolls lived there ?

I'm not sure this is a vehicle that could be bought in any store ? but it's pretty cool, and it gets you where you want to go......

An old Swedish brand Motorcycle

Last night we went for a shorter road trip to the town of Karlsborg which was established and grew due to the construction of a fortress, during the 19th century. According to the principles of a central defense the fortress was designated as the reserve capital of Sweden in the event of war.........

Today there's a Parachute Ranger School here.

Sky looked amazing, and Birgitte, and me, patiently waited for Mom wanting to take pictures

Here's a place to rent, if you want to live in a treestump ...............

There was a full moon, but Mom don't know how to get good pictures of that yet

here we go straight into the woods....................Birgitte seems to think she's driving some kind of tank or an offroad vehicle..........

This is the papermill by night..............