Stockholm

We have made a smooth transition to Stockholm and our hostel. At about eight a.m., Joe and I boarded a train from Sundsvall to Stockholm. The train was neat and clean and the ride was wonderful. We arrived at the Central Station amid heavy human traffic and proceeded into the terminal to find a taxi and have some lunch. Once inside, we needed the facilities and found ourselves faced with something totally foreign to American sensibilities -- the pay toilet. Luckily, Joe had some extra coins. I cannot quite understand the European affinity for the pay toilet. I am afraid the use of the pay toilet in America would lead to rather severe and undesirable consequences.

Once at the hostel, we dropped our luggage and started walking to Gamla Stan -- Old Town. We ultimately got a pass for the subway and were able to ride along. Old Town has some lovely architecture, but I am dismayed at the "Bourbon Street" feeling of one of the streets -- performer on the corner, singing American songs and panhandling for money; eighteen curio shops all hocking wares made in China that have the Sweden logos on them; and, very odd looking people walking around desiring other not so odd looking people to stare at them. Some of their get-ups could be likened to a train wreck -- I simply couldn't look away. I wanted to take some photos, but that would give in to their desire for weirdness too much.

Tonight, we have had a good Italian meal and are back at the hostel. Sarah isn't feeling well so we are medicating her with vitamin C and Ibuprofen. I hope it is just sinuses and not something more serious. We leave Monday morning for home and I can truly say, I am ready to see my friends and family.