Snapshots from a cozy hygge Scandinavian Fall
In the embrace of Scandinavian autumn, we find beauty in transition and warmth in tradition. From the stark undressed trees to the comforting ritual of fika, each moment is a brushstroke in the painting of fall.
Pulleys for the playground
In our latest backyard adventure, we've introduced pulleys to the playground, transforming playtime into an immersive lesson in physics and fun. Our children are now hoisting and heaving with glee, learning the power of mechanics in the most delightful way. Join us as we share this simple yet profound addition to our family's outdoor haven.
A whittled wooden knife for our Youngest Chef
Nestled within the daily rhythm of tending to our wood stove lies an opportunity for creativity—a chance to transform a simple beech log destined for kindling into something more, something special. Today, we found such a piece, one that whispered the potential of becoming more than just a spark for our fire.
Red Deer roast with cherry sauce
Savor the essence of the Scandinavian forest with our Red Deer Roast. Browned in bacon fat, nestled on a bed of root vegetables and forest mushrooms, and braised in a robust black cherry juice reduction. Finished with a rich, creamy sauce, this roast is a testament to tradition and the bounty of the wild.
Danish Elderberry soup - Hyldebærsuppe
In the heart of Scandinavian autumn, kitchens are filled with the rich, inviting aroma of Hyldebærsuppe—a simple yet soul-warming elderberry soup. We take our homemade elderberry cordial, simmer it gently, and if the mood strikes, thicken it to a velvety consistency with a whisper of potato starch.
Tilting trees in the autumn wind
The breath of autumn stirs the woodland, prompting the tallest trees to bow as the damp soil loosens their ancient grips. Amidst the rustle of fallen leaves, we witness the silent dance of nature's giants toppling, temporarily blocking our paths, and in doing so, drawing the community closer in shared stewardship. Here's a glimpse of the forest's seasonal shift, where every fallen branch tells a story of change and resilience.
The Delight of Mini Chanterelles
Out in the forest's quiet, under the whispering canopies, we've discovered a tiny treasure trove: mini chanterelles, no larger than a pinkie finger, awaiting those with keen eyes and gentle hands. Some might pass them by, waiting for the full flourish of sprouted fungi, but not us. With Bear as our guide, his small stature a secret weapon, we pluck these young gems from their mossy cradle.
The Art of Upcycling Old Dining Chairs
In our kitchen stands a circle of oak chairs, each over a century old, handcrafted and originally part of a grand estate's dining set. With history etched into their grain, these chairs have been a canvas for our family's creative expression. Today, we've breathed new life into them once more, re-upholstering their seats with fabric that tells its own story—floral patterns from fabric scraps, the back of an old jacket, the remnants of a favorite T-shirt. This isn't just upcycling; it's a way of weaving our memories into the very place we gather, eat, and share our lives.
A hallows eve Elderberry Roast
In the midst of autumn's embrace, we venture into a culinary journey that brings together the smokiness of the hearth and the rich depth of elderberries. Our roast, charred to perfection and slow-cooked atop a bed of rustic vegetables and aromatic herbs, is a testament to homely culinary artistry. Paired with a creamy elderberry gravy and a refreshing side salad, this dish is both a nod to tradition and a burst of innovative flavor.
Bear's Bone Adventures: A Halloween Extravaganza!
In the heart of the woods, young Bear stumbled upon red deer bones, igniting his imagination of a time where dinosaurs roamed. In Scandinavia, kids often confront life's realities, from nature's cycles to a chicken's fate in kindergarten. At home, these bones transformed into tales of mighty beasts, showcasing the wonder of childhood during this Halloween season.
Signs of Autumn
Embracing autumn in our woods, we're reminded of the Scandinavian 'høst' or harvest. As golden hues and breezes whisper of change, the apples gleam and starlings prepare for winter. Amidst the scent of burning wood and rustling of fading leaves, we find solace in the tranquil embrace of the season.
Roasting sweet chestnuts
Roasting sweet chestnuts unveils a blend of flavors reminiscent of baked potato and hazelnut. After a gentle roast on the wood stove or in the oven, we let them steam under a damp cloth, ensuring tenderness. Finished with a dab of butter, each chestnut offers a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Picking Sweet Chestnuts with the Kids
As autumn unfolds, our kids lead the charge in foraging sweet chestnuts, a hidden gem in our diverse Nordic woods. Arriving at our doorstep with buckets of glossy chestnuts, their pride is palpable. With spiky husks as our guide, we're ready to roast and savor the seasonal bounty, creating cherished family moments along the way.
Mini Pumpkin Pies: A Nordic Twist on a Halloween Treat
As the Halloween spirit engulfs our Nordic home, we find ourselves eagerly embracing the festive season with a batch of delightful mini pumpkin pies, baked to perfection in a muffin tin and topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Harnessing the flavors of local pumpkins that thrive in our Nordic climate, we opt for either the sweet Hokkaido or the versatile butternut squash, creating a rich and flavorful pumpkin puree from scratch.
Stormy Skies and Viking Cheers: Celebrating Heritage at Fyrkat
Amidst the dramatic Nordic winds and a playful storm that seemed to be a blessing from Thor himself, our family found themselves swept up in the vibrant celebration of Fyrkat, one of the five Viking fortresses recently honored with a UNESCO World Heritage status.
Drying Wild Heather
Amidst the changing hues of autumn, the resilient heather blooms with delicate pink bell-like flowers. Gathered and tied into quaint bundles, they hang as rustic reminders of fleeting beauty, transforming into petite winter bouquets that evoke memories of sunlit walks and the earthy scent of the woods.
Homemade Hazel Broom Handles
Our affinity for the versatile hazel doesn’t just stop at whimsical curtain rods; it extends to functional elements around our cottage, like creating sturdy and natural broom handles. With their innate strength, slight taper, and rugged charm, hazel sticks make for a delightful and practical addition to our daily tools.
Chanterelle Stir-Fry - Hoodie-Harvested
On a whimsical forest walk, the golden allure of wild chanterelles turned our casual stroll into a culinary escapade, with a hoodie-hat playing the unlikely role of a makeshift basket. This unexpected bounty swiftly became the star of our dinner, leading to a delightful concoction of chanterelle and chicken stir-fry, enriched with soy and served atop warm, fluffy rice.
Exploring the Secrets of the Fallout Bunker Regan West
Stepping into the hidden depths of the Regan West bunker, we were enveloped in tales of secrecy and survival. Guided by a former army officer, we explored a perfectly preserved relic of Cold War paranoia, where openings for hand grenades and intricate communication systems told stories of suspected infiltrators and clandestine exchanges. Every ashtray and corner held remnants of a bygone era, creating an immersive experience for a small group of visitors, unravelling the shadows of espionage in this historical structure hidden beneath the hills of Rebild in Northern Jutland, Denmark.
Setting sails with the Swan Boat at Bramslev Bakker hills
On a rare sun-soaked day in late September, we boarded Svanen—a converted paddle steamer—for an unforgettable voyage along Mariager Fjord. As we sailed toward the charming town of Hobro, drinks in hand and awestruck by the fjord's natural beauty, it felt like a fairytale come to life.
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