Turn Around

Two Gusties. One Weekend. Reunited.      

    His back was turned to me, and I knew after seven years it was him. I texted him watching his movements. Turn Around. He did. He was looking down at his phone, but once I was close enough to him he looked up. We greeted one another in a hug and within that second I could tell time had no part to play in this friendship. 

    He picked me up from the train station and we were off. Laughter soon filled the car, once he handed me his phone asking me to help with directions back to his apartment. ME? How can I help I wondered. But, I quickly accepted my role as navigator. Turn on this ... well here goes for trying to pronounce Swedish streets. I butchered each name. It didn't seem that Jon needed my help, but this game of Navigator was fun. Maybe he was nervous, I know I was. What if in seven years we had changed, and with the changes, we wouldn't be able to find our common ground. 

    We arrived at the apartment all limbs intact even with Jon's insane driving skills. Ellen greeted me at the door and she too I believe shared the same mindset. It had been 2016, and I was 18 last I saw them both. She made a remark "I still imagine you at 18." That's what happens when time stops. When a person hasn't seen someone in over 7 years. Time and age stop like that of Rip Van Winkle. 

    That night we ate sandwiches, and we tried to speak and capture our 7 years apart into a conversation in a single evening. Finally, fatigue soon swept over us. It was 2 am, and we said goodnight knowing we would have a weekend to catch up. 

  I had managed to remember the importance of Fika and of course Kubb, but otherwise I was limited to the knowledge of Sweden. Luckily Jon is an encyclopedia of knowledge. That's how we meet. He was a freshman at Gustavus Adolphus College which was considered a Swedish-American College. 

FRIDAY

    Waking up that morning, I was eager to make the most of the time we had. That morning I had wassa crackers with butter and Jon made coffee. I also got to experience Snus... which was truly an ordeal to witness. Jon insisted that I should immerse myself in all things Swedish. How could I say no? Let's just say Snus isn't for the faint-hearted. ( Recommendation: Do not take snus after a night of delicious drinks, and do not take on an empty stomach) After that lovely event, it was time to head to the liquor store. I find outings like these absolutely fascinating. They are simple, but it's fun to see the similarities and differences. For instance, Liquor stores are run not like those of America. They don't have sales on liquors. The price is the price. After our outing, we headed back so Jon could grab a quick sandwich. We then were headed from Malmo to Lund University, so Jon could attend his lecture for his studies. 

    Once in Lund, again I was the navigator which still confuses me as to why Jon kept insisting I participate in this role. But with that, the car was soon again filled with endless giggles at my failed attempt to pronounce the street names. Once we found a parking space, we got out of the car and enjoyed the crisp autumn air and sunshine. Jon only had so many minutes before he had to head to his lecture.  He quickly showed me where to walk so I could make the most of my time in Lund without his guidance. He forgets I am a traveler, I don't mind wandering around and just exploring on my own. After careful consideration and finally agreeing to let me go, he soon headed to his lecture. 

    Once alone, I took a breath, allowing everything to cascade over me. I did it. 7 years and one failed attempt in planning to visit in 2020. Here I am. Sweden. I wandered around aimlessly for a while, not knowing where to go. Well, the library in all its glory definitely was calling to me. I had asked Jon, whether or not I needed to be a student to enter. He said anyone could enter. I walked up the stairs and entered. Once in the building the smell of old literature welcomed me and engulfed me in its warm embrace. I had forgotten what it was like to go into a library with the intended purpose of studying. To be honest, I miss that feeling of being a scholar and academic. I wandered about, watching students hard at work meeting deadlines, and completing assignments. I felt like an intruder, and I couldn't stay any longer because I didn't have a book bag or a purpose to study, instead, I decided to venture out and see more of the campus as well as the city of Lund.

    I decided to go walk in no direction in particular. Taking in my surroundings, students, and people passing by me. I must confess one thing.  SWEDISH people are absolutely beautiful. I have no idea what they put in their water, but from their stylish fashion to their posture and speech, they are the epitome of grace and poise.    

     The air was crisp and I decided it was time to enter another building to warm up from the autumn winds. I looked and saw a steeple, and I followed.  A magnificent church of red brick stood before me, and I decided to head in. The ceiling was of many domes, and a chandelier sparkled like stars. The stained glass windows were of beauty. I drank in my surroundings, enjoying the solitude. I have always enjoyed entering a church, they are all similar in a way. I genuflected and decided to say a prayer. Once my body was warmed and I felt tranquil I exited the church. 

    I kept walking, but decided to quickly text Jon, just so I had a sense of time, and when to be back. He messaged me and holy smokes I had plenty of time. His lecture was long which benefited me. I smiled and marched onwards. (Observation: Lots of cobblestone streets) The streets and architecture stood there with pride exposing its rich history boldly. The Lund Cathedral in all its glory was a sight to behold especially with it being opened back in 1145. I coasted along enjoying the views and the speech of the Swedes that sounded like a cheery melody. Soon the time came to an end, and I sauntered back to meet Jon. 

    Once Jon and I rejoined we made a plan to drive around and just cruz. Jon then decided it was time to see another historical place. It was a short drive to a church and it was beautiful especially with the evening sun painting its golden light across the building. ( Jon Fact: Church = Historical event/act of pagans) Jon asked if we should grab a fika or snack, since prior I hadn't eaten lunch due to the snus and its quick effect to make one lose their ability to eat or keep anything in one's stomach. I quickly agreed to this plan. We headed to a cafe that ended up being closed, we drove, and well respectfully let's just say if you ever stay with Jon make sure to pack some emergency snacks in your bag ;) if going for a drive. We soon stopped at a Coop, and I was more than happy to accept this as fika. We entered, and well let's just say I am pretty sure I embarrassed Jon to no end. In Sweden, people shop for groceries in a composed way. I on the other hand was anything but composed. I ran around Jon smiling and buzzing pointing to things and talking nonstop. He was quiet, but I didn't take note of his behavior. I looked at labels on produce and certain names caused me to laugh, and soon I was walking around the store wheezing from laughter. Everyone in the store looked at me as if I had a third eye. They didn't understand but some of the concepts and advertising were anything but respectful at least to the eye of an American. We ended up finishing our shopping and the hungry gremlin (that's me) was finally able to be satiated with the groceries we had just bought. The gremlin tore into her sea salt caramel coffee, and bag of truffle parmesan chips. She was more than content. 

    After the grocery run, we headed to Ellen's work to pick her up from her day of productivity. We drove back to Malmo. That night we agreed to go out for pizza. We ate, drank, and enjoyed one another company. After dinner, I asked if possibly we could go for a walk, and both Jon and Ellen agreed. We walked into the night, but those two had the best idea. We would go to a candy store, and we did. It was an experience, there were rows and rows. From chocolate goodness to goey chewies, to things that seemed more for eye consumption than that of something to consume. We filled up a bucket to the brim, Ellen giving me the reigns to make the choices of what to add to our bucket. Once content with the tasty treasures we paid and headed back to the apartment. 

    Once back, we decided it would be a movie night. We all agreed upon Bridget Jones's Diary. Which truly is the best movie to watch among friends. We dove into the candy, each trying different pieces and grading them on some obscene scale. It was a night of good vibes. This is exactly what I needed. It felt like I had been transported back in time when we would hang out in your dorm. We enjoyed each other's company, even in the silence. Soon the night came to an end, and we said goodnight. I went to my room and smiled to myself. 

SATURDAY

    The next morning I woke up and went into the living room (living room with emerald green furniture, dark dining table, across from Entre shopping mall, disco ball) and started to write. Jon soon joined me and headed into the kitchen to make us all some coffee. Ellen soon joined us. Ellen and I talked and soon we turned on Netflix and we decided a lazy morning was exactly what we needed. We turned on The Good Place, while Jon fixed us tasty omelets in the kitchen. The morning was more than perfect, it was cozy and homey. I truly felt welcomed, and at ease, and honestly, I felt right at home. We enjoyed each other's company and ate while all in a tranquil state. 

    Jon and Ellen agreed that we would walk around Malmo and take in the sights. We walked and soon Jon was pointing out his place of work, a beautiful building where he would teach. The autumn, the company it was bliss. We walked onward towards the city center. Malmo was decorating its city for Christmas. The lights were strung, and the Christmas cheer was merry. All we were missing were the first flakes of snowfall. 

    The modern city soon faded once we stepped foot onto the cobblestone, we stumbled into the medieval past. I stumbled upon a shop called Lilla Torg which made clog shoes (Hand painted designs as well), I knew I had to go in. The shop was small and cute. It consisted of shoes and some small gifts, such as tea towels, dala horses, and magnets. (Malmo- Gamla Staden) After browsing we exited the cozy shop. Within this courtyard/center were many tables and bars. We finally agreed to a beer and decided to sit down. Ellen asked us for our orders, and quickly went to the bar to put in our drink orders. Jon and I discussed all the topics, from Outlander, Vikings, and hockey, to the history of Swedish kings. Jon talked with such passion, that it was hard not to fall into silence. I knew then the reason for him wanting to teach. He has a passion for what he talks about, as well as he captivates you when speaking. Finally, after finishing our drinks we agreed to walk back to the apartment. Tonight we would make the final dinner of Swedish Meatballs, mashed potatoes, and gravy, and don't forget the lingonberry sauce. 

    Once back at the apartment, we opened a bottle of red, washed our hands and it was time to dive into the prep for the dinner meal. Ellen was in charge of making mashed potatoes which I helped with peeling, but Jon and I were in charge of making the meatballs. (You can watch this endeavor of a meal on my tik tok) Jon put the ingredients together, and I followed his instructions. We soon were in sync and started rolling the balls. We had to cook two, this was to make sure they were seasoned correctly before making the full batch. Once we finally believed we had the perfect balance Jon started to cook them. I set the table, and it felt like I was home, I was helpful and myself. The table was set for four, for a friend of Jon's would be joining us for the evening. Once everything was set, the doorbell rang, and I greeted our guest. His name was Lowe, and he had been a friend of Jon's from school. We soon sat down and finally got to eat our lovely masterpiece of a creation. It was truly the best meal I have had since coming to Europe. Maybe it was because we all cooked together, and I knew the meal was cooked with memories and friendship. I didn't feel like I had to put an act on, one that would consist of polite niceties. We all seemed to be more than comfortable with each other's company. Even Lowe seemed at ease even with just having met me. 

    We soon moved to the comfort of the living room. Our bellies were full and now was the time to just be present in one another company. Ellen then asked if we should play a game. Numbers it was called. (For this game there is one guesser, and the rest of the group picks a number once the guesser closes their eyes. Once a number is picked, for example, 2, the guesser will then ask the question. Such as Alyssa what is your least favorite holiday meal? I would say Thanksgiving. once the guesser has asked the question to everyone. The guesser must guess which number they think had been chosen) It was a great game, which helped me get to know everyone a little better. That night was one of warmth, laughter, and friendship. We turned on music and had a singalong to Celine Dion, My Heart Will Go On, as well as The Skye Boat song from the TV show Outlander. The night soon came to an end and Lowe had to head back to his apartment. We said our goodnight, and I was headed to bed. 

SUNDAY

    It was my last day here. It didn't feel like enough time. I wanted more time. I decided to get up early, I went into the living room and sat alone in silence. Allowing myself to just enjoy the now, to process the weekend. My thoughts were then interrupted by Jon, and his cheerful self. I couldn't help but smile, he was so considerate and kind. His energy was infectious and I too smiled. He asked if I wanted coffee, even though he already knew the answer. That morning Jon, Ellen and I sat in the living room enjoying leftovers and coffee while watching The Good Place, I was trying to ignore the inevitable. Today time was my worst enemy and it seemed to be going faster than ever. By 11:30, Jon and Ellen allowed me to make my last meal. I decided to do a college classic. Mac+Cheese, it was easy, comforting, and delicious. They thanked me for the meal, even though they had no reason to. It was I who should be thanking them, for they both were giving me all I could ever want. Connection and friendship.

    Soon it was time for the inevitable. My weekend was coming to a close, and it was time for Jon to drive me to the train station that would take me from Malmo, Sweden to Copenhagen, Denmark. I had everything packed, hugged Ellen, and thanked her, and Jon and I were out the door. We headed to the car, I could feel the tears in my eyes but I had to keep them at bay. We spoke about things I can't recall because all I could think was... it's not enough time. We parked and I got out of the red Volkswagen. There stood Jon, and nostalgia hit me like a semi-truck. Looking at him brought me back to being a Freshman in college. We embraced and I said goodbye. I walked to the station, not looking back. This was just a see you later... this would not be a goodbye. 

    Hey Jon, 

If you got to this part it means you read my blog. Thank you. Thank you for hosting me, and for making the most memorable weekend ever. I am so fortunate to have met you 7 years ago, you are truly one of the greatest people that came from my time at Gustavus. Until we meet again Grandpa :) Go Gusties!  

-Alyssa

P.S

You are welcome to come to visit me anytime. There will always be a place for you, and Ellen.