All good things come to those who wait. So the saying goes. Yet, I suspect the jury may be out on that one.
We’re in Lappland, so a question we keep asking ourselves – “Will we ever get to see some reindeer, other than the stuffed variety”? As we get closer to leaving this huge area, it’s as if it’s become the most important thing in the world. With what seems like endless kilometres and endless days of the same old same old, we’ve been patiently waiting, yet ready to accept disappointment too.
We’re still on E45 as it jinks its way from one tiny town, or hamlet to another. Heading towards Camp Ripan and the iron-ore mining city of Kiruna, the most northern city in Sweden. It feels desolate; surrounded by massive ugly slag heaps; and slowly subsiding. So much so, that works are currently in operation to move the town to a new location. Completion date 2040. At one point, its mine was the largest and most modern in the world.
Virtually every day, Mrs S sends grandson Jason a video of some kind. Usually mechanical based. He loves tractors, diggers, steam rollers and the like. If there’s workman about, she gets her camera ready! Today Jason receives something different – as do we . . .
Earlier, before leaving Jokkmokk, we spend a couple of hours in the Swedish Mountain & Sámi Museum [we ought to be expert by now]. Hopefully our last museum for some days.
It’s by far the most complete Lapplander’s museum. It describes in detail the reality of life in this harsh northern environment – from pre-history to present day. How the Sámi and then also the settlers have been able to fine-tune their knowledge and skills to overcome the everchanging Arctic climatic conditions.
Always able to find time for creativity too.
