Love the Stockholm Archipelago

We've had an unusually wonderful string of warm, sunny, summer-like days here in the latter part of May. It's always such a pleasure when the high pressure comes in and you can enjoy being out without freezing! It's funny how often I've wondered if this early warm weather is a sign of things to come or the sum total of what summer will bring in terms of warmth. I hope the former...I fear the latter.
But, rather than moan about the bad weather that could come our way, I think I'll concentrate on the wonderful ways in which we've been able to enjoy this early glimpse of summer. A couple of Saturdays ago, I read that the forecast was for a reasonably warm (20 C, 70 F) day so I put out a call to some friends for how to enjoy it. I hit the jackpot with the response. Some friends with a boat talked to some friends with a home on one of the islands in the archipelago and Voilà, instant amazing plans unfolded for us! We met up with our friends and their boat and headed out into the amazing Stockholm archipelago.

A quick stop for boat fuel and human fuel got us going! Olle and Doug sat on the roof of the boat for awhile and Olle showed his multi-dimensional skills by steering the boat with his foot! Tanner loves to come along and was one happy dog. Time for a snooze says the hund.It was warm enough to sit out for a bit. It was warm enough to wear shorts! It was stunningly beautiful and it felt great to be on the water again.

Not all stugas (summer cottages) are created equal. Here are a couple of homes by the sea that I would like to inhabit.We arrived a our friends' place and enjoyed one of those magical summer days that refresh and renew one's spirit.The view of their island paradise from the water.Our wonderful island hosts, Kjell and Mare.Hanging in the sunshine with a glass for champagne with our buddies. How could it get better?

We toasted with champagne, we feasted on a delicious assortment of food, including the first grilled food of the season. I missed taking a photograph of the lovely little raspberry tart type things that Judy made for dessert. Wow. Delicious. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. Yes, I ate more than one.

We enjoyed one another's company and took in the beauty that surrounded us in this archipelago paradise.The view from the deck where we feasted on food and conversation.These views are behind the house. Those chairs beckon me to come and read a few books while lounging in that spot!

As the day was coming to a close, we boarded the boat for our journey back to Stockholm. Even in the evening, it wasn't all that chilly. I love being out on the water late in the evening. The sunsets and colors that emerge all around are breathtaking.While getting the boat settled in at the dock we spotted this mother duck with her brood of little guys. They were adorable. They had to scurry like mad to keep up with mom and several of them decided to hop aboard for smoother sailing!This day was a wonderful day that was filled with the joy of being with good friends while being surrounded by the beauty that Stockholm brings to our life. I really hope this is a sign of the kind of the summer that awaits us and not a small tease that will leave me longing for heat all summer long!

Holidays in Sweden

Today is Ascension day...Christians acknowledge this 40th day after Easter and usually celebrate it on the Sunday following the Thursday. Because Sweden used to be a country where Church and State were joined, most all of the public holidays are tied to the church year. So today, Kristi Himmelsfärd dagen, is a holiday. Literally translated, the holiday means Christ flies to the sky, or Christ journeys to heaven, but because it is a somewhat obscure Christian holy day falling on a Thursday, the Swedes who do not practice any religious tradition (approximately 98% of the country) don't really know why they get this spring holiday nor could explain its significance. They are just happy for a Thursday holiday that also then invites them to take Friday and turn it all into a 4 day weekend!
Swedes love their time off. If you ask a Swedish person if they'd rather have more pay or more time off, I would guess that at least 95% of the time, they would say more time off. Of course, this could be related to the fact that a pay raise also means a tax raise so they don't really see the point of earning more money to just pay higher taxes. Even so, their attitude about time off vs. higher pay is quite compelling. And they know how to make the very most of their holidays. So, whenever there is a public holiday (known as a Red Day), employees have the right to take a half day the day before the holiday because you know, you have to prepare for the holiday. Then you get the holiday off as well. But here's the real kicker. Most of the time, you also get the day after a holiday off, commonly known as the second day of Easter or Christmas or whatever holiday you've just had off because you also need a day to recover from the holiday! Now, in the case of Ascension, Friday isn't a real holiday, but because you get Thursday, most think that going back to work on Friday and then having the weekend would be such a waste of good holiday time so they take what's called a squeeze day in order to enjoy a 4.5 day holiday weekend. Many employers give the squeeze day as a day off (much like the Friday of American Thanksgiving) so you don't even have to take a vacation day in order to get this lovely long weekend. So today, I'm off for Ascension day. And yesterday we left at noon. And tomorrow we are also off. And it is actually quite nice!
A little side note on the Kristi Himmelsfärd holiday. When we first moved to Sweden, I saw this holiday on the calendar and because I didn't realize that all of the holidays were linked to the church and because I didn't know any Swedish at all and because Kristi is a woman's name, I simply asked Doug, "Who is this Kristi chick we get a holiday for in May?" He was very happy that I hadn't asked someone else from church the same question! Now I know that Kristi means Christ and Himmelsfärd means Ascension, in its own inimitable manner, and I shall enjoy a half day on Wednesday, a holiday on Thursday and a squeeze day on Friday 40 days after Easter for as long as I live in Sweden.

Yale Alley Cats in Stockholm

Yesterday we were invited to the residence of the U.S. Ambassador to hear a concert by the Yale Alley Cats, one of the all male A cappella groups from Yale University. These types of groups have a long and storied tradition in America and it's great to see them when they pass through Stockholm on one of their tours. The last group that was here were the Whiffenpoofs of Yale and that was 4 years ago. Because Immanuel Church's main sanctuary is such a great venue for concerts, we are often asked to host a community concert by these groups. We are happy to accommodate these types of requests and so if you are in Stockholm next Thursday, 20 May, feel free to come by Immanuel for the concert which will begin at 19.00. And the reason that we were invited to attend this more intimate gathering at the ambassador's residence is because we are hosting the concert. Being nice has its perks!
It's always fun to go to the residence and it was great to see how the new ambassador (arrived last August) and his wife have changed the decor. It looks great! Right now, an exhibit of American art is displayed throughout their home. We loved the giant portrait of President Obama that was gracing one of the living room walls! I was especially impressed by an enviable terrace that looked so inviting. I could only imagine how much time I might spend out there if I lived in that house! Meeting the young university students was also very fun. They had just finished finals, flew across the Atlantic ocean, arrived in Stockholm that morning and were greeting guests and performing songs like old pros. They are very talented, funny, and warm young men and it was great to get an up close and personal look at them!
The afternoon was also fun because we were off work and the sun was shining and even exuding warmth. We ended up walking home along the waterfront of Stockholm in the company of a good friend. It was such a great afternoon. Experiences like these cause me to realize how unique and special our life in Stockholm can be. We do get to do some pretty amazing things and I feel grateful for the ways in my life is enhanced through these various experiences.

Kungsträdgården and the Cherry Blossoms

As soon as winter begins to wane and signs of spring slowly begin to appear around Stockholm, the local buzz turns to the cherry blossoms in Kungsträdgården. Located in central Stockholm, this row of trees creates one of spring's most treasured dazzling sights. As mentioned in a previous blog, we wandered through there a week ago. Some of the blooms were out but many were pregnant buds just waiting for enough warmth to jump out. I had heard from others that the trees were finally in full bloom and have been pondering when I could get down there during a time when the rest of Stockholm isn't to soak it all in! Once the trees bloom, day after day, the steps and the benches that surround the area are filled with happy people who want to surround themselves with such natural and fragrant beauty. The weather has also been quite un-inviting with the climate more reminiscent of November than May. But this morning I woke up early to a bright blue sky and knew that if I didn't get Tanner and myself out the door for an early walk, I would regret it. The forecast for the rest of the week is for more of the grim and after a few good rain storms and plenty of wind, the blossoms disappear for another year.It was gorgeous this morning. Bright sky, and the sun was even warm. The city was just waking up and Tanner was happily sniffing out the new day.

Arriving in Kungsträdgården after about 10 minutes did not disappoint. Very few people were in the square and those that were had cameras, just like me! The carnival of pink that was bursting forth in the middle of an urban area made my heart sing. I began to snap photos while Tanner searched for food and trash! I had to laugh. He didn't care one bit about the blossoms...I was feasting on the beauty around me while he was feasting on the trash that was left behind from yesterday's visitors!After snapping away and taking it all in, I began my walk back home. The sun was warm and I actually slightly over dressed in a long sleeve shirt, sweater and down vest. I'm anxious for sustained warmth to hover over Stockholm. But at least I know that once the cherry trees have bloomed, in a way, we've officially entered the beautiful season here in Stockholm. Let's hope the sun agrees with that philosophy and decides to take long, warm holiday here in Stockholm this summer.
All of the photos on the blog today were taken this morning around 7.30 a.m.

My Wonderful Parents

So, my mom turned 80 yesterday and we're so thankful that she's around to celebrate! I was longing like crazy to be home with her but that big 'ol ocean and a couple of continents kept us separated. We had some nice phone conversations and I was happy to encourage her on this special day. As most know, my mom's been fighting ovarian cancer for 3 years. In fact, she started chemotherapy on her birthday 3 years ago. It's been a rough road but she's done remarkably well. After a year of remission, the cancer came back and so she went back on chemotherapy about a month ago. This time her Dr. is trying an oral chemo that is having a good effect on the cancer activity and not wiping my mom out quite so much. Still...you live with cancer in such a delicate and precarious way. My dad has been a trooper, continuing to care for her needs and hang in there through the ups and the downs. Being the partner is not such an easy role either and he handles the hard stuff with amazing grace. I deeply admire the way they continue to care for one another and share in life no matter the twists and turns. With my 16th wedding anniversary looming later this month, I can only hope that Doug and I will be able to love one another and stick by one another with such grace, hope and love. They are remarkable and I so deeply admire the way they are truly living into the wedding vows they took 52.5 years ago.
Now, because of the chemo, my mom has lost her hair again. She's a remarkably good looking bald woman and an inspiration to all who suffer from this side effect. She has like zero vanity issues and just lives into her appearance. It makes her all the more beautiful and I have great respect and admiration for the way she handles the tough stuff that cancer brings into their lives My father has been, shall we say, hair-impaired for many years now. He has a great sense of humor and has always made good jokes about my mom joining him on the hair loss front. So, you can imagine how amused I was to receive this photograph this morning with the title "Twins! and the caption, "AND THE MULLEN TWINS CELEBRATE 80TH BIRTHDAY TOGETHER!" I just love that in spite of the challenges that cancer brings, they are still figuring out a way to love one another faithfully as well as laugh when the other laughs and cry when the other cries. I love them both for who they are and the ways in which they encourage others with their joy, care and hope.

At Last, Spring...sort of.

We've had plenty of sunshine but not so much warmth. The flowers, trees, grass and bushes are trying to spring forth with life but it's a slow bloom this year. It does happen rather quickly however when it happens.
On Monday we walked through the city center. I had heard that the cherry blossoms in Kungsträdgården were out and experiencing that is one my of favorite things to do in the spring here in Stockholm. As you can see, they were trying like crazy to pop, but they just weren't quite there. I did hear from someone yesterday that they are now in full bloom. Guess I'll have to walk down there later today!

Also, the tulips are standing tall but not quite out in all of their glorious beauty. The daffodils however have popped open in all of their golden glory! I love the daffodil as to me, it appears as though they are great golden horns announcing to the world that spring is finally here! It's Spring! It's Spring! Let's celebrate in a loud and festive way!I went to a lunch yesterday on the Kaknästornet, a very large TV tower out near the island of Djurgården. This photo is not mine. I took it off of a website. It also wasn't that clear yesterday!

It has spectacular views and good food. I must remember that this is a really good place for a fika and get out there. It is stunning to see the world from far above. My photos aren't so great. The glass reflection against a sunny background wasn't such a great combination for my amateur photography. But even high above the city I began to see that things had "greened up" since Monday. I love how fast it turns, once it decides to turn. More flowers were in bloom, tress were waking up, and all in all, I felt like spring had sprung. But alas, on my evening walk with Doug and Tanner I also realized that there are still pockets around the city where the trees still look quite barren and the flowers need to be kissed a bit longer by the warmth of the sun in order to open up. But let's face it, who doesn't need to kissed a bit longer sometimes?And it's cold outside! I felt like I could've worn gloves on our walk and I was happy for the layers of a sweater, scarf and reasonably warm jacket. At least my winter coat is in the closet and I haven't had to wear boots for a very long time!
This time of year makes walking the dog quite a treat as you wander through the city looking to see what new life has come into being on any given day. You don't want to miss a day as so much is metamorphosing right this very minute. I couldn't resist this little planter with a friendly reminder to canine owners! Tanner likes "watering" the flowers so I guess it's a note that is necessary!The fact that it's written in English makes me wonder if they are directing their comments to us?! Actually, I know the owner of the restaurant and he speaks English all the time, but it's still kind of funny given that we speak English to Tanner!
It's beautiful and lovely even though it's still chilly. I know we'll get some rain, but for now, in spite of the chill, I'm thankful for the sunshine and all the blooms that surround me.

International Pastors and Spouses Conference

I haven't been on the blog lately because we have been hosting the Association of International Churches in Europe and the Middle East (AICEME) pastor and spouse conference here in Stockholm. This is a great group and Doug and I have looked forward to and enjoyed every single conference we've been to. The list is long and amazing:
1999: Cairo, Egypt; 2000: Paris, France; 2001: We hosted in Stockholm; 2002: Antalya, Turkey; 2003: Nairobi, Kenya; 2004: Frankfurt and Wittenburg, Germany; 2005: London, England; 2006: Zurich, Switzerland; 2007: Budapest, Hungary; 2008: Istanbul, Turkey; 2010: Back in Stockholm.
Not only have we enjoyed traveling to amazing places and seeing other international ministries in action, we've had the rich privilege of building deep and abiding friendships with ministry colleagues that have sustained us through the years. This year proved to be the same once again. We did a lot of fun stuff but also had time for reflection, learning, and sharing. Some of our friends are coming off difficult and conflicted years, bringing with them the burden that change is imminent in their lives. Others are settling into a spot that once felt foreign but now feels like home. We are the old-timers of the group. Us and one other couple are the only ones who are in the same ministry spots that we were 12 years ago when we first met. Some of our most beloved colleagues are moving on and that means limited chances to see one another. Even so, these conferences and our shared place in International ministry provides a bond that is not easily broken.We began the week with a reception in our home that featured Swedish ciders and a few nibbles. The week unfolded with a beautiful day at Stensnäs, our retreat center, where we listened to Dr. Runar Eldebo share his sage wisdom and perspective on Christianity in the European context. We were reminded once again that Europe is not America and things are quite different here. It was inspiring and insightful.
We taught the group how to play Kubb, an old Viking game that was invented on Gotland and we enjoyed laughing and playing together. Sharing in small groups allowed us time to gain insight into what was happening in each of our ministry contexts and the closing worship was one of the most powerful times of worship I've ever experienced.
Wednesday gave us an opportunity to hear from former member Sam Nweze. Sam is now an ordained Covenant pastor, working hard in an immigrant church plant south of Stockholm. What a thrill to listen to him talk of his journey to the pastorate through the ministry of Immanuel International. He is doing a great work and needs our prayers and support.
Of course, we had fika (coffee and a little something) often.We were also lucky enough to catch the changing of the guard on a day when they brought in the horses.We took the group to Helsinki, Finland on the Silja Line Ferry and this provided hours of relaxed conversation and fun meals. Experiencing the Swedish smörgåsbord with all manner of fish is something that needs to done at least once...maybe only once...but we all had a great time lingering over dinner together.
We visited 3 different churches in Helsinki: The Orthodox Church, The Lutheran Church and The Rock church where The International Church in Helsinki meets. All 3 are so distinct and tell an important story of the religious history of Finland.

The exterior and interior of the Orthodox Church.

The Lutheran Cathedral and the pulpit.

The interior of the Rock Church

The International church of Helsinki were our hosts for the day Thursday and in spite of temperatures that hovered around zero C and icy rain, the warmth and joy of the church and all that is happening there warmed us from the inside out. What a great ministry Helsinki has going with amazing outreach to immigrants and pathways from society into the church. We were inspired by our colleague Timo and will continue to pray that he can execute his vision for that ministry fruitfully.
The weekend brought us back to Stockholm to take care of the business of the association, eat Korean food and learn how to play innebandy, Swedish indoor floor hockey. Playing together solidifies relationships and opens up pathways to friendship. What fun to run around and be silly together.
Saturday was a day to enjoy our beautiful city and a trip to the Vasa Museum and Skansen, the open air museum filled with Swedish history did not disappoint. One of the brown bears was putting on quite a show by climbing a tree and enjoying his perch on top. Welcoming this group to our Sunday worship celebration was a joy. The out-going president of the group preaches on Sunday morning and Carol Simpson from Strasbourg, France gave a great message on opening wide the doors of the church that many in our congregation deeply appreciated.
The closing banquet is a time to goof off, show how untalented we can be and enjoy a warm laugh before we say our good-byes. Our banquet host, Michael Simpson is the President of the International Space Institute in Strasbourg, France. He's looking mighty presidential in this photo.

We took part in an ABBA lipsync that was memorable for all the wrong reasons.
Even so, it was good fun and reminds us that we really can be ourselves with this group.
We were encouraged by the worship and prayer. We were inspired by the stories of how God is using the International Church in so many different ways across Europe. We were filled up by the love of good friends and ministry colleagues. It was a privilege and a joy to host this conference and we are so happy that our friends had such a good time here. Now we all look forward to being in Paris, France next year and the anticipate with joy the rich and abiding time we know it be.