Thursday, July 30, 2009

Oland and Karlskrona Trip

Rex and Vicky on the beach at Sturko where Klaus and Monica Bernpaintner spend the summer.
Monica Bernpaintner and her mother at their summer cabin. It was quite an experience to use the little outhouse. I haven't done that since I was a child and visited my grandparents.

Old wood church in Karlskrona where a statue has his hand out inviting people to deposit money under his hat. We donated to the cause.


Rex trying to eat a two scoop ice cream cone with extra vanilla softie on top. It actually turned out to be about 14 scoops and is the best ice cream we have ever eaten. The little store makes their own waffle cones as we watch. I am ready to go back for more. Quite frequently there is an hour wait to get a cone here.

Photo taken from the military fort called Kungsholmsfort on an island out of Karlskrona. This overlooks the Baltic Sea and was a huge defense for Sweden in years past. There is still a presence of military personnel on the island.

Sarah, Klaus, Monica Bernpaintner and Rex as we sat in the Marine Museum in Karlskrona waiting for our trip to the military island.

One of the cannons that was used for protection at the Kalmar Castle. This castle was a defence against pirates, enemies, and the Danes. At the end of the 13th century it was considered the most modern fortress in Sweden.
Rex in front of the mote that surrounds the Kalmar Castle.

Vicky inside the castle where numerous activities were available for children with samplings of the past.

Beautiful baby in long christening dress that had just taken place at the Kalmar Castle.

Rex standing at the entrance to Kalmar Castle in Kalmar, Sweden.

One of the longest bridges in Europe. It is the bridge from Kalmar into Oland. What a spectacular site!

Baltic Sea from Oland Island. This was taken just below the beautiful Ekerum Golf Resort.

We felt fortunate to have an upgrade on the car rental. It was a little Mercedes.

Signs like this all over Europe directing traffic to the "in" direction. It can't help but put a smile on your face when you see one.
We never expected to see a camel on Oland, but there are several fields with camels grazing.

Borgholm Castle from one of the highest levels, looking into the courtyard where there are currently many events that take place. Borgholm was one of the most important strongholds in the Middle Ages and up to the 17th century. There were many battles and sieges here. Swedes, Danes and Germans have by turn held the castle. Kings and princes held court in its halls.
Looking from inside the Borgholm Castle to the Baltic Sea in the background.

Vicky looking out from one of the dungeon cells inside the Borgholm Castle.

Grave markers at the Borgholm Castle.
Professional golfer, Cecilie Lundgreen giving a few of us from the temple a few hours of golf lessons. She is a strong member of the church and a neat, neat lady from Norway. About 7 years ago she joined the church. She loves coming to the temple.

Vicky, Cecilie Lundgreen and Rex at the golf course. What a privilege to know this wonderful young lady.

1 comment:

Alayne said...

Spectacular pictures Vicky! You do such an amazing job at posting them. It has been so fun to share in your mission experiences. We hope to also serve a mission together someday! Where will you be calling home now that your mission is over? We would love you to come to Highland-- we have a great ward family here! : )