First Journey Day 63: Droplet Dreams
Date: October 26, 2023
Location: Gothenburg, Sweden
Today in Gothenburg, Sweden, steady rain softened the city’s edges. I slipped into the Swedish rhythm of fika—unhurried coffee, a sweet bite, and conversation—letting the weather set a gentler tempo.
Rainlight Over Gothenburg
The rain added a quiet charm to the streets. Pavements glistened with tiny mirrors; the whole city seemed to exhale into a serene ambiance.
Quiet Moments at a Café
I found a quaint café tucked between historic buildings. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee felt like comfort itself. I ordered a kanelbullar (cinnamon bun) and a steaming cup, then watched the room: laughter in small bursts, pages turning, the soft hiss of milk.
The Ritual of Fika
It’s fascinating how a simple act—sharing coffee—sits at the heart of a culture. Around me, locals lingered without hurry, some deep in conversation, others happily lost in their books. The ritual made the gray afternoon glow.
Choosing Stillness Over Sketching
I let my sketchbook rest and chose to simply be present. The window gathered droplets; I gathered quiet. Sometimes pausing is the truest part of the practice.
A City in Step with Rain
The sound of raindrops against the glass, paired with the warmth of the café, felt like a hug. Today was a reminder of beauty in simplicity: a warm drink, good food, and the soft percussion of rain are enough to feel content.
Travel Notes
- Weather: Rainy, about 10 °C. Streets slick and shining; windows misting at the edges; umbrellas blooming like small planets in motion.
- Scents: Fresh coffee, cinnamon and butter from the kanelbullar, a whisper of wet stone from the street.
- Sounds: Raindrops tapping the window, quiet chatter, pages turning, the gentle clatter of cups.
- Reflection: Contentment is often uncomplicated—pause, taste, listen, breathe.
Continue the Journey
If this gentle pause speaks to you, linger with yesterday’s fika reflections in Stockholm. Or step ahead to the next day’s quiet in Malmö.
