Unpacking is a process of finding where things fit. I am hoping to get a spot in the basement for the empty boxes to get rid of the clutter. As usual for me, I have put the things away left behind from the owner because I prefer my own. I have a couple of boxes left here to unpack and a few in Malmö. One or two have Christmas decorations.

One of the first things I put together is my desk. Photos of my family are up! I love being able to see their faces and look forward to being able to hug them soon. Norwex things are in the corner. I found out last week they are closing down in Europe at the end of the month. No more distributors and no more discount, so I made a large order to tide me over. They are still my favorite products.

I have empty boxes and things which will come to the USA with me for others and some artwork which needs to be put up. My paintings from Elin Ullman, whom I met in Stockholm, hang in the spare room where I have my desk. I love the colors and that they come from a friend.

The living room has some color now. I have my plants in Malmö still but it is coming along. Bought an Easter tablecloth from the very cool secondhand store we went to this weekend. It was one of the nicest I have ever seen. It was well organized and had good quality things. They even had a café where you could get coffee and treats. There was a line to get in when we arrived, now I understand why. I found two english books to read and the tablecloth.

Putting my touch on the apartment helps me feel at home but it is always cold in here. I have the elements turned up but I have to wear socks and a jacket most of the time unless I am very active. I am not used to having it quite so cold but perhaps it will keep me active. I also don’t have a dishwasher, which is taking some getting used to.

It is nice exploring the new neighborhood. I live above the town on a hill which overlooks centrum. There are a lot of apartments here but also quaint single family homes. There is a playground and a school. It is close to several grocery stores. Folketspark is nearby and the walking trails are so nice to use as they meander through trees and neighborhoods.

One thing you can count on, whether in a city or a village, are nice walking and bicycle paths which are well marked. I did get a little lost on my way back, but it was a nice walk. Used GPS to get me in the right direction again. The other thing you can count on, are the parks where you can sit and relax and take in nature. Often there are places where you can walk into the forests as well.

On my walk today I saw plenty of birch trees, evergreens and a bit of water both frozen and running. The photo above is just outside a neighborhood you wouldn’t realize was there from the photo. It was cold this morning but a wonderful walk nonetheless. It is one of the best things when I feel down, going for a walk. I like to go as soon as I wake up, without thinking about it, so I get it done and it always helps improve my mood.

Next week I will be doing a book writing retreat at home. The plan is to work on the book project I have started with this blog. I have begun with all my blog posts and plan to add some thoughts to them. I wanted to go on a book retreat in France but with the expense coming up with my travel to the states, I decided to do it at home. I have mapped out a plan of action to carry me through, starting with a morning walk. Wish me luck. I will keep you posted on my progress. Maybe the french retreat can be another time.