#throwback – 9 June 2024

Yesterday we went to bed very early, especially David John, and that’s why we wake up very early today. I follow D.J.’s example and by 7:30 a.m. (yes, you read that right) I’m packed and on my way. I’m not really in the mood for a proper breakfast— a banana and some coffee make a perfect alternative. My roommate has already left quite a while ago. Some people do like to overdo things.

It’s chilly and a strong wind is blowing. Not exactly pleasant, but as long as I keep walking, it doesn’t bother me too much. At least it’s still dry.

Fortunately, the route is easier again, and after about an hour and a half of walking, I reach the Navsjöns Nature Reserve with a huge lake. This place must get pretty crowded in summer, because there’s a picnic table every fifty meters or so. There are also lovely little beaches and easy access to the lake for swimming. I actually see quite a few people—which doesn’t happen often. Most of them are fishing.

I try to find a table where the wind doesn’t blow too hard, but that’s easier said than done. I want to fry some eggs, you see. The flames go in every direction and I lose a lot of heat, but in the end I devour my version 2.0 breakfast as if I haven’t eaten in weeks. Absolutely delicious!

The weather stays changeable, but I get lucky. Most of the rain falls just after I arrive at my shelter around 3 p.m. There, I can cook out of the wind, go for a swim (read: give myself a proper wash), and calmly do my laundry. All in all, it’s a lovely afternoon with alternating rain and sunshine.

At one point, it really starts pouring, while the sun shines brightly at the same time. That must mean there’s a rainbow somewhere! And yes— I step out of the hut, turn right, and see a stunning double rainbow. A breathtaking gift from nature.