It was a typical late afternoon in November, where the clouds leave no space between the ground and the sky. But it wasn't the limited visibility, or the damp chill in the air that formed my lasting 'first' image of Dalarna ...it was the 24 hour silence that exists in the high country of central Sweden.
The houses are woodsy and welcoming -whether they be large ...
or small.
The artistry and detail of even the most functional of things caught my eye,
as well as my reflection
Small tea lights were everywhere -helping to offset winter's long hours of darkness,
and the intoxicating aroma of birch wood fires,
and afternoon coffee brewing proved to be just the appetizers ...
for the saffron bullar and pepperkakor waiting inside.
While hiking on trails in Dalarna, If you're lucky, you may pass by a doorway such as this ~
where carvings deep in the metal hinges convey thoughts known only to the Viking hand that carved them over 1,000 years ago.
In the heart of Sweden, even the modern-day graffiti commands respect. (circa 1793)
Any trail, in any direction will take you through untouched, ancient forests ~
where one can still taste the sweetness of natural spring water.
Lesson learned:
I wonder if the marks we leave will ever communicate
such a sense of wonder and connection?
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