I have mentioned before how other bearded men, strangers, often acknowledge me with a slight nod of the head or a something a little more overt in the recognition of another hirsute male. The beards have to be big; the owners generally the same. And it happened again today.
I was returning from my usual Wednesday walk and shop into Trosa when, just before I crossed Smackbottom, a biker, relaxed on his Harley, his black beard luxuriant, gave me a big, friendly wave. I didn’t know him. It was merely the result of a meeting of beards.
It added some more joy to an already joyful morning. A morning of sun and cloud, intermittently interspersed across the sky. At one stage, a rather odd occurrence of coloured cloud presented me with a photographic opportunity.
It looked a lot more ethereal in real life. The effect of sunlight on cloud made for a slight rainbow effect that looked decidedly unnatural. I tried a few times, but the above was the best photo.
Maybe the mysterious coloured cloud caused it to be very quiet in town today. A few old people shuffled about and there was the occasional tourist, but, generally, it was delightfully empty. I realise this is the calm before the storm as visitors increasingly arrive for the season. As the town shakes off the winter duvets and embraces the summer warmth.
Anyway, I managed to shop and get home in double quick time. Who am I kidding? It took the usual two hours.
Not that the walk through the woods was usual. Hordes of screaming kids were abroad today, chasing the little white and orange things in trees, placed by teachers for their charges to discover. At least, I think that’s the idea. I’m not sure how the screaming helps, but I’m of the opinion that it must, given the amount they employ.
It’s lovely seeing the kids enjoying the woods, scampering over rocks, between trees and along the path, each one clutching what appears to be a map. When people complain about how great it was in the ‘good old days’ when kids had more freedom, it’s interesting to note that the ‘good old days’ appear to still exist here in Sweden. I didn’t see a single teacher.
It’s a great joy. Even with the screaming.
Back at the house, I noticed the Dead Neighbour’s House had three visitors today. There was a man on the roof, a woman with a clipboard and an invisible person I didn’t see. Which makes sense given they were invisible. I have no idea whether they were new owners, inspectors or simply interested strangers.
There was an open house there last week for a few hours so, maybe, we’re about to have some new neighbours. We shall see. I’m hoping the curse doesn’t take them too.
While inside our house, things are cracking on. Harald and Roger have progressed to the colour stage. And I have to say, I really like the yellow in the kitchen/dining room. I’m thinking it will look quite bright when the sun hits it.
Speaking of colour, I do wonder whether my grey beard is indicative of being wise, old or a wizard. I’m going with wizard until I hear differently.
Well certainly not wise!! ☺️