Efter Midsommar

We were invited to spend Midsommar in Tanum, a small town on the coast about 140km North of Goteborg. The weather all week had been, in a word, poor. So much for Summer. But, our friend Ingrid mentioned that the weather is always bad leading up until Midsommar (last year, especially). And, then, like some biblical prophesy, the skies part, the weather gods smile, and good weather returns for the holiday weekend. Okay, I made that last part up. But, the skies literally did part. And, on the drive up, I saw my first ever funnel cloud! Came down less than halfway from the bottom of the cloud. Then dissipated. Was not able to pull off the highway and provide you with photographic proof. Next time! I promise.

So upon arriving, it was time to eat the traditional Midsommar meal: herring (sill) and new potatoes (nytt potatis). Now, I was expecting an actual fish (head and all). Nope. The herring were swimming in jars of pickling juices and sauce. There were three flavors: plain, onion and mustard sauce. I preferred the onion. The texture was interesting. My palette had to warm up to it. Like fish balls, the herring is manufactured by Abba. The seafood company, not the pop group. New (or fresh) potatoes are essentially boiled baby potatoes with dill. And served with sour cream. Simple, yet delicious. To end the meal...strawberries (jordgubbar).

Then, we made our way to a common area near the boat dock. Around 200 people assembled. Young and old. And waited. People ate. Kids played. Music wafted through the air. Swedish folk tunes, perhaps. Then, the maypole was brought out and raised.

Two rings of children and adults encircled the maypole. And the dancing began. Several dances were performed. The most famous is the frog dance (små grodorna dans). My favorite was the sleeping bear dance (björnen sover). Sadly, I have no video of this. I was too enthralled by the choreography. I am working on an iMovie of the festivities. Because, who would want to be deprived of seeing people hopping like a frog and dancing around a maypole.

Well, there is always the photo of TJ wearing a crown of Midsommar flowers in his hair.

Back to food. Dinner. First course. Colorful and tasty.

Main course. Leg of deer (Bambi). Our host, Jannes, shot the deer himself. Yes, that is a big leg. No, between four of us (plus 2 children), we did not finish even half of it.