Life in the Land of the Ice and Snow
Infiltrating Sweden one cinnamon bun at a time
When I moved to Sweden, I learned that every week of the year is referred to by number. That was strange enough, but then I was informed that every day on the calendar also has names attached to it. After digging into it a bit more, I found out that name days in Sweden are … Read more
Valentine’s Day in Sweden can be a hassle when the snow (or slush) outside is at least a foot high, & you want to wear nice high heels with your dress.
If you are offered a smörgåstårta at an event, this is NOT a cake!
For Swedes, Valborg represents burning away things like winter, cold and witches. Learn more about this odd tradition & why you should go.
There was once a Swedish king who died from eating 16 semlor. If you don’t control yourself, it might happen to you too.
Lose a glove in Stockholm? Don’t worry, it’s probably on display nearby. Here’s why losing something in Stockholm might just restore your faith in humanity.
I’m sure many of you around the world shop at IKEA, and from what I’ve seen, the experience seems universally the same. Let me walk you through the classic IKEA adventure – see if this sounds familiar.
What if I told you that you there’s actually a few more ways you could enjoy the Swedish winter? That’s right, it’s possible. Just take a look!
Knut’s Day, January 13 – the day Swedes bid their Christmas trees farewell with the tradition of julgransplundring (“Christmas tree plundering”).
The days between Christmas and New Year in Sweden are what we call the “in-between” days. Here’s why they’re the best days to work.
I get the best of both worlds as a dual citizen for the holidays. Let’s take a look at the differences between Swedish and American Christmas traditions.
December 13 marks the celebration of St. Lucia day. It’s a day where children light up—sometimes literally – and sing beautiful songs of the season.
Ever have one of those days where you think, “My hand’s been hurting for 15 minutes” then you look down and your thumb is covered in blood?
It’s that time of year again. The “days” are dark, the coat is thicker. So here are my top 5 tips for surviving the Swedish winter.
Just a sample from our neighborhood online group detailing how some Swedes still just don’t understand Halloween.
I found this lovely display of s’mores in the image search, but was very confused when I noticed the link was associated with a blog dedicated to funerals.
Gone are the days of peeking through curtains and whispering over fences. Now, the modern busybody takes to their keyboard.
Take a peek into a Swedish workplace on Fat Tuesday and discover that the only acceptable topic for discussion is SEMLOR!
Today I learned that a Tempur mattress can freeze. This is something I never thought I’d have to deal with. Perhaps we should turn up the heat?
When I’m cold and thinking of ways to warm up, my thoughts turn toward the giant straw Gävle Christmas goat.