Lessons from Sweden

23 days have come and gone since I left home- 23 days of adventure and learning. Tonight, I sit here at a small table in the hostel's common room and have time to reflect on some of the biggest lessons I've learned. With my headphones on and my computer tuned in to the local country station back home, I hear new songs that have been released sometime between July 7th and now and they are a happy change from the songs on my iPod- I've been itching for a musical makeover and tonight's station offers just what my ears have begged for.

When I think back to my arrival in Sweden almost a month ago, I can't believe how much I've discovered about the country, people in general, and myself. Here's a condensed list of bits and pieces I've learned along my journey so far:

-Banks are great places to stop and ask for directions- they're quiet and have air-conditioning.
-Taxis are expensive.
-Avoid gypsies at all costs.
-Money is hard to come by and very easy to lose.
-Nothing is better than being with people you love and who love you back.
-Trust your gut- if you don't feel comfortable with something, there's probably a reason why.
-Expect delays, plan on mishaps, and always leave with plenty of time to get where you're headed.
-If you don't know, ask.
-My deodorant and toothbrush are my two most precious possessions.
-Patience. Patience. Patience.
-Being a host or hostess is more than just letting someone enter your home, it means making your guest feel special, comfortable, and welcome.
- I don't know anything about cooking or Swedish politics.
-Don't smile at strangers.
-Swedes don't like excessive chatter.
-Nothing beats good soft-boiled egg.
-I get by just fine with a small duffle bag of personal belongings.
-I will always remember the generosity that my friends and relatives have shown me.
-Faith, Family, Friends- these are what matter most.
-After two years, my heart is really starting to heal.
-I miss home more than I thought I would.
-This trip is harder than I expected.
-I love traveling.

There's much more to add to this list, but this is the CONDENSED version.
I leave tomorrow for Reykjavik and then head to my artist residency on Monday. August is a month of painting, drawing, journaling, blogging, Joe Artist, photography, and discipline.... and fun.
Even though I had a blast in Sweden, I'm ready for Iceland- like a child graduates from crawling to walking. I'm ready to walk.