Well. It started so well today! A nourishing late breakfast (after not rolling down Annelie’s drive) and some equally nourishing baby cuddles (Sonia and Dave’s pineapple Swedish socks were a hit with my little friend) led to a neat reverse down her very steep drive and we were on the road again. In the rain. I got the heater to work (YEY!) and we got to enjoy endless wide and almost empty tree-lined roads for hours on end. Until I missed a turning.

“You were only supposed to blow the bloody doors off’ sprang to mind as I (as part of an innocent turn in a safe spot) forgot the length of the van and found Kitty’s bottom hanging into one of the many many ditches which seem to line the lovely Swedish roads! Hazard lights on, I dare not get out (you’ve seen the film, you know why) so just waved frantically at anyone who drove by. Some waved back 😀 , others looked perplexed. I was certain I couldn’t hold it there while I waited for assistance and imagine the embarrassment. So, full throttle was the only thing for it….I went for it and PHEW! We popped back out of the hole and I composed myself and headed back on track. A close shave!

Those ditches, I observed them for many miles after that (the map tracker will show you how many) and they really are everywhere, waiting to catch you unawares and let you tumble into a grassy hollow. It certainly kept my eyes on the road from then on!

I also drove past a town called Tindered. Do we speculate this is where one moves when a partner has been found  by way of Tinder? Or is it the home of those with Tinder-fatigue? More information clearly required.

The campsite in Gusum is very cute. I was late (again) but barely and my pitch was ready and waiting by the side of the lack along with a welcoming committee in the form of a young Dutch girl named Luna. Her family have a 1953 vintage caravan with them; it is a thing of great beauty. I’ve told them to wake me up so I can see it packed up and on its travels.

So, after a stroll around, a little socialising and getting the camper ready for bed which generally includes wrestling a nervous Spaniel from the front seat to the bed at the back; I popped directly into the WC opposite to get ready for bed. I was brushing my teeth and a man went out. Ah, a mixed WC again, I assumed. Then a second man walked past me and I realised my amusing error. I was in the gents. I know in this age, this should be fine but now wonder if they are speculating about the short-haired, flat-chested girl in the pink van. I’ll throw them off the scent tomorrow by using the ladies 😀

Today’s credits:

Audio Credits: Sonia’s playlist and a brief taster of North Junior’s peculiar demon-related works. All suggestions welcome for my next few journeys.

Sock Credits: Dave and Sonia Cockram

Film Credits: The Italian Job, Carry on Camping

Stockholm tomorrow and then another night on the sea…