The Maypole!
There’s a little part of me that lives in Sweden all the time. When I can’t be there in person, though, I try to bring Sweden here to me! For the first time we celebrated Midsummer in Long Beach. My family was here to celebrate with me and even though the weather wasn’t the best, we had a wonderful time. I thought I’d share some of the midsummer traditions with you!
First, we needed a maypole. I kept assuring Bob it would be a simple thing–cut a tree, stick a couple of supports in the ground and you’re good to go. Bob must really love me because he uncomplainingly tackled this task!
He got to use his chain saw!
Of course he also had to use a post hole digger.
Then he cut down a big alder tree and brought me all the branches. In Sweden it would have been a birch tree, but, alas, no birch here. I made yards and yards of garland.
Bob helped me attach it to the pole.
I used wild Scotch Broom for the wreaths.
Cole says it passes inspection.
With Swedish music playing, we raise the maypole!
Can we do it?
Almost there!
Now it’s in place and time to dance around the pole–which we did, but there are no photos because EVERYONE was dancing!
I love this view of the maypole from the cabin in the woods.
7 Responses
June 20th, 2009 at 9:55 am
I wish I was as ambitious as you. That is really neat!!! I see mom and dad were there to watch.
June 20th, 2009 at 10:08 am
Looks like fun!
June 20th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
That reminds me of fifth grade. it was the Oregon centennial and we were doing a big program. Our group danced the maypole in our pioneer dresses. We had lots and lots of fun! I guess my Scandanavian ancestry is still inside wanting to get out.
June 20th, 2009 at 9:36 pm
Karen, I’d say you are REALLY enjoying retirement!
June 21st, 2009 at 12:49 am
that is so awesome
I hope it lasts forever
must be wonderful to look at for you and all the memories that come with it for you
July 2nd, 2009 at 7:25 am
Beautiful Maypole – I’ve never seen one like that before. What a wonderful tradition and what fun you and the family must have had celebrating.
July 25th, 2009 at 11:16 am
That man does realy loves you. My regards to him.
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