Chapter 1: Exploring Winter in Sigtuna

During my travels, Olof and I took the opportunity to explore central Sweden's countryside, marveling at the winter landscape draped in a fresh layer of snow. This unexpected weather led to what the local media dubbed ‘Snow Chaos’ while we were in the Kiruna region. My timing, as always, seemed perfect.

With the luxury of heated seats in Olof’s reliable Saab station wagon—a fantastic choice for transporting large dogs—we navigated the snowy terrain in comfort. We crossed frozen rivers, observed quirky highway signs, and witnessed the aftermath of accidents caused by speeding in treacherous conditions. It was fascinating to see how Swedish communities adapt to the challenges posed by heavy winter snowfall.

One of the highlights of our journey was a visit to Sigtuna, one of Sweden's oldest and best-preserved towns. While the tourist information center was closed for the winter, I gathered that many buildings date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, making it a place steeped in history.

Despite the winter chill, Sigtuna exuded charm. The main street featured a mix of quaint ruins and historical buildings, many of which now house upscale shops. This blend of commerce and heritage makes for a pleasant stroll towards the town hall.

The side streets offered their own treasures, with ancient structures showcasing their age and character. Some buildings appeared warped, adding to their rustic appeal. The presence of around 150 rune stones scattered throughout the town further enriched the ambiance, making every corner intriguing.

As my adventure continued, I ventured out onto a frozen lake for a day of ice fishing. Recognizing the inherent risks of this activity, we approached the ice with caution. We initially misjudged the thickness, so Olof tested it step by step. The uneven surface posed challenges, but we eventually found a suitable spot.

Unfortunately, my fishing skills left much to be desired; I didn’t catch anything, which wasn't surprising given my technique. After a half-hour of futile attempts, I was more than ready to retreat to solid ground and enjoy some BBQ hotdogs—a Swedish twist on a classic.

With my time in Sweden nearing its end, I enjoyed a final sauna followed by a snow roll (a unique experience worth mentioning in my next entry) and wandered through the serene woods near Olof’s home. I stumbled upon a charming outdoor toilet left in the snow and spotted my first woodpecker, which was quite a treat.

As the sun set on my last evening, its rays filtered beautifully through the trees. I felt grateful for the warmth and hospitality of Olof, Anne, Elise, and Robert. I look forward to returning to this magical place.

Chapter 2: Winter Activities in Stockholm

As I wrap up my reflections, I can't help but mention Balder, a 1.5-year-old Doberman who has become quite the character on my travels. Despite his imposing size, he is one of the friendliest dogs I’ve encountered, full of energy and always eager for attention and play.

Until next time, I’ll cherish these memories and look forward to more adventures. A heartfelt thank you to my hosts for an unforgettable experience in Sweden!