Special Region And People
Years ago, these pictures were taken in two countries within the Scandinavian region. The purpose for my visit was part of a much larger and emotionally difficult trip, though an incredibly important part of my unique journey.
The supportive, nonjudgmental, healthy reminder message of self care (the business carries) started for me when I went overseas on this trip. I naturally wanted to share the good region that helped prepare me for the difficulty that was ahead. It has a much more complex backstory, though it's important to remember history, and to try and take care of self on your journey. Always remember we are all a work in progress, including the business. Challenges are part of life and it helps immensely having help and support through it all. At times, I personally distance myself from humans, though this business tries to provide some help.
Unfortunately due to a particular schedule, (out of my control) I was there for a short period of time and couldn't take many pictures, though wanted to share some. I hope one day to return and take some more.❤️
Unaware at the time, I was there during Midsommer, a holiday mindful of the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. I was able to see some festivities while in Denmark.
Midsummer, Midsommer: Originating as a pagan celebration, this joyous festival is marking the beginning of summer and for some a hope for a successful harvest. In Finnish mythology, it can sometimes be associated with god of sky and thunder, Ukko “Heaven God.” Ukko was important and thought to control rainfall and fertility of the land. It was known as a magical time of healing and good fortune, bonfires were lit and loud noises were encouraged and made to drive away evil spirits. Focusing on bringing good health, people bathed in natural springs, and houses were cleaned and decorated with flowers and plants. It was also known as a time for finding love.
Although times have changed, and pending on the region you’re from, it’s also viewed as a Christian holiday, with the Feast of Saint John. Wearing flower wreaths in the hair, having bonfires, music, singing and dancing around a maypole-(a flower filled wooden pole), and going on nature walks have been added to certain regions festivities. No matter which region you’re from, you’re surrounded by family and friends, with lots of good food and drink. Many weddings and christenings take place during this time period.
Starting celebrations of Midsommer take place
Denmark (Midsommer Eve or Sankt Hans Aften) June 23rd
Sweden (Midsommar Eve) Friday between19th and June 25th
Norway (Midtsommer Eve, Sankt Hans Aften, or Jonsok-kveld) June 23rd
Finland (Juhannus) Saturday between June 20th and 26th
Iceland (Midsumar or Jonsmessa) June 24th
I took a boat ride into Sweden! Unfortunately time was a factor and I wasn't able to see a lot while there. I hope to return to the beautiful country filled with lots of interesting sites and wonderful people.🩷
Being in Denmark the longest, I have more to share about it only based on some pictures that were taken. I had no idea many years later I would have this business and would be sharing anything.
In general, Danes take pride in their yards, which is nice. They are tidy, have neatly trimmed landscape, and for some yards are full of flowers during the summer time. Danes tend to be good gardeners. :) To clarify these cottages are not the typical home, most live in what's called parcelhus, a small bungalow with a garden in the backyard.
The country seems it has more bicycles than people. :) They are everywhere! Denmark has mostly flat land making it easier for pedaling. Special bike lanes run throughout the cities and bike racks are provided in most places.
Opening in 1843, Tivoli Gardens is one of Europe's oldest amusement parks built in Copenhagen. During the summer months, thousands of flowers bloom. At night you can see many lanterns lighting up the park, and music can be heard in every direction. People can enjoy going on the rides and seeing a nightly firework display. It's a neat place to go!
Fun fact: Walt Disney was inspired by Tivoli when he built Disneyland in California.
In the 1400's in a town of Helsingor, Kronborg Castle was built. In it's cellar a legendary story goes, the Viking chief Holger Danske will rise from his sleep and go to war if Denmark is ever attacked.
In 1602 William Shakespeare (English playwright) used the castle as a background for his famous play Hamlet.
The swan is Denmark's national bird. They are graceful birds which can be found in the wild and hanging around pond in city parks.
In 1837 Hans Christian Andersen wrote the famous fairy tale the Little Mermaid.
In 1913 the statue was built on the waterfront in Copenhagen. It is the most photographed object in all of Denmark.
Most of these pictures were taken in Denmark, though I have spent time with people from Sweden, Finland, and Norway. There will always be good memories attached to people that have shown me respect and kindness within their homeland, and when seeing, while traveling elsewhere in the world. Thank you for being so kind to me. It was/is greatly appreciated!
Although easily thrown into a category we are all individuals. I’ve never met a culture I didn’t like or find something cool or interesting about. You learn about yourself and others through the experience. I didn't have a lot of pictures from my trip to really showcase the region, though still wanted to share something. I hope you have an opportunity to visit the interesting region, and to be amongst the beautiful and kind people.
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