The moment I stepped foot on Swedish soil @ Malmo harbour, I realized that I had come home. That is exactly how I felt. I understood what my ancestors must have felt. I discovered where I had derived some personal traits had come from. The Swedes are very unique people. And their country is beautiful. Of course I was there in Summer, when the days are super long, but I felt energized the entire time I was there. The rich culture and immense sense of pride, responsiblity, and community were amazing to witness. While not really outgoing, the Swedes are extrmely helpful and kind.

I have always heavily identified with my Swedish side and my trip there just reaffirmed my love for almost everything Swedish. My trip started in Malmo (where my great grandather and great grandmother were from) and headed down the southern tip of Sweden over to Karlshamn. Along the way, we stopped off at Dag Hamarsjkold's estate (amazing man and beautiful grounds) and other sites along the coast including a stonehenge like area that sits atop these amazing cliffs. From there we headed north to the glass blowing district(around Vexjo). After developing a strong appreciation for glass blowers and sculptors, we headed northward to Stockholm. Truly a beautiful city. Vibrant tradition and modern attitudes demonstrated throughout the city Stockholm are a testament to the Swedes ability to combine the old with the new in a very pleasing manner. Then we headed over to Goteborg. Another great city. More of a vibrant feeling in Goteborg than the other cities--most likely due to the fact that it is a college town. I didn't want to leave Sweden. Two weeks just wasn't enough.

The people were the nicest that I have encountered in all of my travels (as limited as they have been). The natural surroundings and Swedish appreciation for nature and the environment is beautiful. Their sense of duty and national pride is also refreshing. The Swedes love their colors. Yellow and blue abound as to the three crowns of Sweden.

Yes, their socialism form of government has its flaws, but it definately seems a more docile society than here in the U.S.. It is a relatively safe place to live. Another nice thing about the Swedes is that they embrace those things that are foreign to them, seemingly without compromising their own traditions and distinctions. They are a very accepting people.

As far as Swedish women go, they are beautiful. I do have to say that Danish women are sexier and overall better looking (that may have something to do for my affinity towards brunettes), but Swedish women are still amazing. They are wholesome, yet fashionable. They carry themselves extremly well. As you can tell, I am rather enamoured with Nordic women, but the Swedish women are not the sex kittens that Americans tend to believe they are, but they are nonetheless amazingly fresh and beautiful.

Things tend to be a bit expensive in Sweden, but it is well worth the trip. I am only sorry that my grandfather was unable to witness firsthand the splendors of his parents' homeland, but I am thankful that my dad and I were able to experience our heritage together for the first time. I do hope to get back to Sweden inthe near future and once again drink in its beauty and gentleness. Tak sa myket.