It's not even October yet but I have started to see the signs of my usual autumn blues. I'm very tired. I want eat loads. Especially carbs and rich food that's comforting. I don't feel like doing anything (because I'm so tired) and I just feel plain cranky and snap at people without any reason. So is it possible to hibernate and come back out I late March or early April? Life would be so much easier.
All thoughts and ideas for posts are gone and I just feel dull and boring. I have nothing to say or talk about . One comfort though is that I know it will go away. In a couple of months I will be used with the lack of sunshine. I will not like it bit it's OK. It will be fine eventually. Just like every time.
September 30, 2010
September 26, 2010
Election mess
Just as I (and many others) predicted last week the election ended in a bit of a mess. No majority for either side. Two seats missing for the right side to get own majority. Instead 20 seats for the ultra right-wing/nationalism/fascism party. A party that either side doesn't want to co-operate with. So the result so far is that we don't have a government and both sides are doing their best at playing games. It has been very quite all weekend which maybe actually means they are talking with each other. I'm not really sure about the rules regarding how long we can go without a government, but surely it can't be that long?
The people from the ultra right-wing party who now will take their seats in parliament all look nice and are very clean-spoken, i.e. they have been media trained and prepared for what awaits them. Something that doesn't apply for the party members taking seats in the local councils. When you listen to what they are saying you start to wonder what planet they are from. It can't be the same same planet (Sweden) as me. One person said that our ancient monuments were under threat along with the Christmas- and Midsummer-holidays. Another one said that if you believe in Islam you can't be Swedish. Really I thought we had freedom of religion. There are so many trolls coming out now saying things that are seriously wrong, ridiculous and sometimes actually hilarious. Don't they have a clue?!
What worries me though is all those people who believe what they are saying because they don't know better. What's really missing here is information and knowledge about different cultures, customs and religions. People are always afraid of things they don't know enough about.
The election result is also a big sign of failure for the government and all political parties. People wouldn't be voting like this if they were happy with the current rules and regulations regarding immigration and integration. It will certainly be an interesting autumn. Especially for me who said politics had become boring and plain.
The people from the ultra right-wing party who now will take their seats in parliament all look nice and are very clean-spoken, i.e. they have been media trained and prepared for what awaits them. Something that doesn't apply for the party members taking seats in the local councils. When you listen to what they are saying you start to wonder what planet they are from. It can't be the same same planet (Sweden) as me. One person said that our ancient monuments were under threat along with the Christmas- and Midsummer-holidays. Another one said that if you believe in Islam you can't be Swedish. Really I thought we had freedom of religion. There are so many trolls coming out now saying things that are seriously wrong, ridiculous and sometimes actually hilarious. Don't they have a clue?!
What worries me though is all those people who believe what they are saying because they don't know better. What's really missing here is information and knowledge about different cultures, customs and religions. People are always afraid of things they don't know enough about.
The election result is also a big sign of failure for the government and all political parties. People wouldn't be voting like this if they were happy with the current rules and regulations regarding immigration and integration. It will certainly be an interesting autumn. Especially for me who said politics had become boring and plain.
September 23, 2010
Quote of the day
Just opened a bottle of wine and couldn't think about anything more right than this:
Vulnerable, she opened her heart and mind to the wine; at once, it grasped her senses and passion, stopping everything for a moment in time.That's what happens when you tase your first sip of a really nice wine.
September 21, 2010
Super Hero traits
According to Grover these is the traits a Super hero should have. I agree. It's also very good if they can make you smile just like Grover did.
September 19, 2010
Election Day
Today it's time to vote for parliament, county councils and city councils in Sweden. Counting last night I realised this is my 5th time voting and I've been voting for the same party all the time. Probably a sign that I'm not that into politics and really don't care that much. Still though I find it very important to vote as it is one of the major cornerstones of living in a democracy.
This year is actually the first time I haven't listen to any of the debates. Neither of the party leaders appeal to me or really what they are saying appeal to me. It's just the same, or at least almost the same. The campaigns this year have also been very much about voting right or left, not the individual parties. A bit sad since each individual party gives more flavour to the debate than just two sides.
Without saying too much, the way you vote in Sweden is a big secret. You just don't tell anyone, I really hope that we get to keep our right side government. If they get re-elected for another term history will be written. I really also hope very much that the ultra right-wing/nationalism/fascism party doesn't make it to the parliament. Their thoughts are pretty lame and ridiculous but still dangerous for people who doesn't know better. With them getting into parliament the risk of a hung parliament is extremely high. Neither side will have a majority and need to seek someone to govern with. Nightmare for everyone. We'll see tomorrow how it all ends.
This year is actually the first time I haven't listen to any of the debates. Neither of the party leaders appeal to me or really what they are saying appeal to me. It's just the same, or at least almost the same. The campaigns this year have also been very much about voting right or left, not the individual parties. A bit sad since each individual party gives more flavour to the debate than just two sides.
Without saying too much, the way you vote in Sweden is a big secret. You just don't tell anyone, I really hope that we get to keep our right side government. If they get re-elected for another term history will be written. I really also hope very much that the ultra right-wing/nationalism/fascism party doesn't make it to the parliament. Their thoughts are pretty lame and ridiculous but still dangerous for people who doesn't know better. With them getting into parliament the risk of a hung parliament is extremely high. Neither side will have a majority and need to seek someone to govern with. Nightmare for everyone. We'll see tomorrow how it all ends.
September 16, 2010
My own wine cellar
Well not really my own, but as of last Friday I'm now a member of Göteborgs Vinkällare and have my own little space/box where I can store my wine.
It's something I've been think about for along time, but been somewhat hesitant to do since I'm just a happy amateur when it comes to wine. Yes I taste and drink a lot of wine and can tell the difference between the major grapes and their characteristics but I'm far from an expert. Later this autumn I'm also going take a basic course in wine knowledge which I'm really looking forward to. Hopefully it will also make me feel more secure that I actually do know a thing or two about wine.
I felt awfully grown-up when I signed the contract for the cellar. Like I had taken a giant step into adulthood. I also thought a lot about dad. When he died 23 years ago he left quite a substantial wine collection behind, which mum very happily enjoyed drinking. He loved Bordeaux and now I really wish we had kept some of the '82s, which back then were very young.
So in honour of dad I went to Systembolaget (Swedish alcohol monopoly) and bought a bottle of Château Brane-Cantenac 2007. Margaux was his favourite Bordeaux appellation and I will open it in May 2014 when he would have turned 80. I'm pretty sure he's watching from his heaven now thinking "That's my girl!"
I also bought a bottle of Cullen Mangan 2007 in honour of several Aussie friends who have inspired me to peruse my interest in wine and have thought me a lot about Australian wines. Of course we have also shared some magnificent bottles of wine.
It's something I've been think about for along time, but been somewhat hesitant to do since I'm just a happy amateur when it comes to wine. Yes I taste and drink a lot of wine and can tell the difference between the major grapes and their characteristics but I'm far from an expert. Later this autumn I'm also going take a basic course in wine knowledge which I'm really looking forward to. Hopefully it will also make me feel more secure that I actually do know a thing or two about wine.
I felt awfully grown-up when I signed the contract for the cellar. Like I had taken a giant step into adulthood. I also thought a lot about dad. When he died 23 years ago he left quite a substantial wine collection behind, which mum very happily enjoyed drinking. He loved Bordeaux and now I really wish we had kept some of the '82s, which back then were very young.
So in honour of dad I went to Systembolaget (Swedish alcohol monopoly) and bought a bottle of Château Brane-Cantenac 2007. Margaux was his favourite Bordeaux appellation and I will open it in May 2014 when he would have turned 80. I'm pretty sure he's watching from his heaven now thinking "That's my girl!"
I also bought a bottle of Cullen Mangan 2007 in honour of several Aussie friends who have inspired me to peruse my interest in wine and have thought me a lot about Australian wines. Of course we have also shared some magnificent bottles of wine.
September 12, 2010
West coast wines
On Wednesday it was time for the first wine tasting of the autumn - wines from the American west coast.
Kings Ridge Oregon Pinot Noir 2007
Light red colour with hint of blue. Lots of cherries, raspberries and red currants on the nose and palate. I still haven't learnt to like Pinot Noir yet. They are very characteristics with their cherries, raspberries and light colour but I just find it too light for my taste.
Lucas & Lewellen Syrah 2007
Deep red blueish colour. The nose is very distinct with blackberries, plums, licorice, raspberries and some oak. The palate is filled with fresh fruits such as blackberries, plums and raspberries. Also pepper and hot spices. Syrah/Shiraz is one of my favourite grapes and every time the spicy pepper note hits the palate I start smiling.
Windsor Sonoma Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Deep red blueish colour. Nose of dark fruits, chocolate coffee and vanilla. The palate is filled with roasted oak, blackcurrants and vanilla. Lately I have started to think that plain Cabernet Sauvignons are just boring on both the nose and palate. You know exactly what you are going to get and this wine was not exception.
McManis Petite Sirah 2008
Deep red colour with hints of purple. On the nose plenty of boysenberries, blueberries and fruity aromas. The palate gives away tobacco, vanilla and again red and black fruits. My favourite of the evening. It reminds me a lot of Syrah, but with a more youthful taste and milder spiciness.
Beringer Founders Estate Old Vine Zinfandel 2007
Deep red purple colour. The nose reminds me a bit of of Christmas spices such as cloves, vanilla and allspice along with blackberries. On the palate there is hints of burned oak, pepper, and vanilla. In my book this a very bland Zinfandel without the distinct nose and palate of jam and fruitiness.
Kings Ridge Oregon Pinot Noir 2007
Light red colour with hint of blue. Lots of cherries, raspberries and red currants on the nose and palate. I still haven't learnt to like Pinot Noir yet. They are very characteristics with their cherries, raspberries and light colour but I just find it too light for my taste.
Lucas & Lewellen Syrah 2007
Deep red blueish colour. The nose is very distinct with blackberries, plums, licorice, raspberries and some oak. The palate is filled with fresh fruits such as blackberries, plums and raspberries. Also pepper and hot spices. Syrah/Shiraz is one of my favourite grapes and every time the spicy pepper note hits the palate I start smiling.
Windsor Sonoma Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Deep red blueish colour. Nose of dark fruits, chocolate coffee and vanilla. The palate is filled with roasted oak, blackcurrants and vanilla. Lately I have started to think that plain Cabernet Sauvignons are just boring on both the nose and palate. You know exactly what you are going to get and this wine was not exception.
McManis Petite Sirah 2008
Deep red colour with hints of purple. On the nose plenty of boysenberries, blueberries and fruity aromas. The palate gives away tobacco, vanilla and again red and black fruits. My favourite of the evening. It reminds me a lot of Syrah, but with a more youthful taste and milder spiciness.
Beringer Founders Estate Old Vine Zinfandel 2007
Deep red purple colour. The nose reminds me a bit of of Christmas spices such as cloves, vanilla and allspice along with blackberries. On the palate there is hints of burned oak, pepper, and vanilla. In my book this a very bland Zinfandel without the distinct nose and palate of jam and fruitiness.
September 09, 2010
London photo of the day
I met up with some friends at The London Eye for the first ride of the day and we had a spectacular view seeing miles away. Back on the ground again we went and had brunch and to defrost. A great day that shows that it doesn't always rain in London during the winter.
September 07, 2010
Blind as bat
I got my first glasses in 1st grade. Brown reddish 70's style with more or less unbreakable spring hinges. That was the start of a life with glasses and becoming blind as bat, at least figuratively speaking. My glasses is the first thing I put on when I wake up and the last thing I take off when going to bed. For the last 20 years or so I've been using contacts in my official life, i.e. at university and now at work. But when I come home I change back to glasses and during the weekends I wear glasses all the time.
For the last couple of years my sight hasn't got worse, but with wearing -6 lenses I consider myself blind as a bat. Without glasses or contacts it's very hard for me to function, but I'm far from legally blind. Something I get reminded of every time it's time to get new glasses. About every 5th year or so.
I went to the optician last week and was prepared to pay a lot for new glasses, but when he said 5700 SEK (£485/$750) I almost fainted. Just the lenses was 4200 SEK (£360/$550). For that kind of money I can get a ticket to New York and still have some money left. I'm sure there are cheaper frames and lenses out there, but still I wouldn't be able to function without corrective lenses. So why does it have to be so expensive? It is a disability. I'm very fortunate to be able to pay this sort of money, but I can't help thinking about those people who can't. It's crazy.
For the last couple of years my sight hasn't got worse, but with wearing -6 lenses I consider myself blind as a bat. Without glasses or contacts it's very hard for me to function, but I'm far from legally blind. Something I get reminded of every time it's time to get new glasses. About every 5th year or so.
I went to the optician last week and was prepared to pay a lot for new glasses, but when he said 5700 SEK (£485/$750) I almost fainted. Just the lenses was 4200 SEK (£360/$550). For that kind of money I can get a ticket to New York and still have some money left. I'm sure there are cheaper frames and lenses out there, but still I wouldn't be able to function without corrective lenses. So why does it have to be so expensive? It is a disability. I'm very fortunate to be able to pay this sort of money, but I can't help thinking about those people who can't. It's crazy.
September 05, 2010
Food heroes
I've found a new food hero or really food heroes - Hugh Fearnley–Whittingstall and the team working at The River Cottage in Dorset.
From time to time I've watched an episode here and there on TV but just as another cooking show. During my holidays this summer I somehow managed to watch every episode of the last series and really got into what it is all about. To cook and eat healthy local, seasonal produce. To be self-sufficient and farm with integrity and honesty, i.e. with organic principles in mind.
Living in the city it's so easy to just walk into the supermarket and buy whatever you want without thinking about where the produce comes from or if it's in season or not. I love fresh asparagus and when those lovely green or white bits arrive in April-May I get so happy. I kept on buying them most of the summer until I looked at the package one day where it said from Mexico. Hm, well that is quite far away, isn't it? Some other food loving friends confirmed my thoughts. The asparagus season here at home were way over. The same with strawberries. I love strawberries but buying them right in the middle of winter flown in from Egypt? No I don't think so. The same goes for apples, plums and pears at the moment. Why on earth should I buy things that have been flown across the world when our local kind is at its peak?
When it comes to meat I'm the same. I really would like to know where the cows, pigs and lambs come from. If they have been able to be outside and play. Then there is chicken and eggs. Free range all the way thank you very much. I'm a firm believer that organic produce is so much better for us and the best thing is also it taste so much better.
River Cottage is very inspiring and shows us that it is possibly to buy and eat local food. That love, care and respect for all sorts of produce will take you a long way.
From time to time I've watched an episode here and there on TV but just as another cooking show. During my holidays this summer I somehow managed to watch every episode of the last series and really got into what it is all about. To cook and eat healthy local, seasonal produce. To be self-sufficient and farm with integrity and honesty, i.e. with organic principles in mind.
Living in the city it's so easy to just walk into the supermarket and buy whatever you want without thinking about where the produce comes from or if it's in season or not. I love fresh asparagus and when those lovely green or white bits arrive in April-May I get so happy. I kept on buying them most of the summer until I looked at the package one day where it said from Mexico. Hm, well that is quite far away, isn't it? Some other food loving friends confirmed my thoughts. The asparagus season here at home were way over. The same with strawberries. I love strawberries but buying them right in the middle of winter flown in from Egypt? No I don't think so. The same goes for apples, plums and pears at the moment. Why on earth should I buy things that have been flown across the world when our local kind is at its peak?
When it comes to meat I'm the same. I really would like to know where the cows, pigs and lambs come from. If they have been able to be outside and play. Then there is chicken and eggs. Free range all the way thank you very much. I'm a firm believer that organic produce is so much better for us and the best thing is also it taste so much better.
River Cottage is very inspiring and shows us that it is possibly to buy and eat local food. That love, care and respect for all sorts of produce will take you a long way.
September 02, 2010
Happy Cabernet Day!
Today all over the world wine lovers celebrate Cabernet Day. One of the most common grape varieties in the world. It's not really my favourite grape, but when you drink a perfect stored and aged bottle of wine from Bordeaux you know why it is so loved. Pure heaven when all those different tastes explode in your mouth.
I have to admit though that I'm currently drinking Peter Lehmann Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon 2007. Australia is probably my favourite wine country and there is no doubt about it that the people Down Under know how to make wine and are incredible good at what they are doing.
I have to admit though that I'm currently drinking Peter Lehmann Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon 2007. Australia is probably my favourite wine country and there is no doubt about it that the people Down Under know how to make wine and are incredible good at what they are doing.
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