Midsummer at the American Swedish Institute

Maggan is now safe and sound back in Sweden after a fun visit with us. Thanks for all the delicious 'bullar' - some of which are still in the freezer. The boys (and Phil and I) love them! Maggan's last weekend here, we headed into Minneapolis to check out the midsummer festivities at the American Swedish Institute. It was a very hot day and both boys (and Ebba) were functioning on a minimal nights sleep, so we did not last for very long. Noah did enjoy sitting in the shade, listening to one of the classic Elsa Beskow stories. We had some lunch and then watched the 'midsommar stang' procession:


After the decorated pole was raised, the entire crowd was encouraged to join in some traditional dancing around the pole. Maggan tried a dance or two with Noah but he had just about had it - I guess we'll have to try to indoctrinate him in this very Swedish celebration again next year! We went into the ASI mansion to cool off and so that Maggan could give herself a quick tour of the beautiful century-old house. While waiting for her, Noah strolled around the lobby looking at various items. He pointed to a carving at the bottom of the magnificent staircase and asked, "Mamma, what's that?" I quickly glanced over and mumbled something about a lion, but Noah quickly corrected me saying, "No, Mamma, that's a sphynx!" I think maybe he was right! Must be a bit of information he picked up from a book.... After a quick drink of lemonade - sold by kids from my swedish school classes - we were ready to pack up and head back home.