Solen skiner!

The sun is shining!!  Today, was what you could finally call a truly sunny day!  It was sunny all day long and even though there was a cold wind and the temperature was in the mid-30's, we could not get enough outside time!

The flower vendors even had their outdoor markets set up

The Stockholm Konserthus

The Stockholm Public Library

I started the day taking Calvin to the medical lab for a blood draw for some medicine that he is taking.  Once again, I was amazed and in love with the Swedish propensity for organization and efficiency!  The lab opened at 7:45.  When we entered the large waiting room, there wasn't any type of receptionist or person directing our care.  We simply took a number from the machine (these machines are everywhere, in every shop, office, bank, etc - so we always learn to look for them and take a number immediately upon arrival), had a seat and waited for our number to be called and to show up on the digital sign.  A lab tech then walked us back to a cubicle, took the lab order, punched in Calvin's personal number which links all aspects of his medical record in a national data base, took his blood and sent us on our way!  By that afternoon, his doctor had called with his results and everything was great.

Calvin then went on to school while I headed out to meet an ex-pat women's group for fika.  Every Monday morning, a facilitator sits at a table in a local coffee shop and welcomes and greets whatever expat women want to attend.  This gives us all the opportunity to meet other English speaking woman in the city who may or may not be associated with our school.  I don't always go but I always meet interesting people when I do.  Today was no exception with a new American in our midst.

I had to stay away from home until at least 11 because Tabitha was at home, having a Skype interview that she did not want me to witness or disturb.  She was interviewing with Columbia University for acceptance.  She felt like it went well so we will see what happens in the next month or so!

When I got home and got Tabitha off to school, it was time for a long walk with Coco, just so we could both enjoy the sunshine.  My camera got a good work out today!

After another example of good care and efficiency at the dentist, where I got a cracked filling repaired, I finally came home and got the kids started on their Swedish lessons.  While they worked on their vocabulary, I made a delicious vegetarian Indian curry that we all enjoyed!