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The Swedish Dalahorse (Dalahäst)

One Swedish hallmark is the Dalahorse from one of our counties Dalarna. It’s a wooden horse in a certain horse shape, traditionally painted in red with ornaments in white and blue. But these days you can find Dalahorses everywhere, in other materials and colours. Right now it’s kind of fashionable to have one in your home.

But the one that will always remain the original Dalahäst is the one in wood from Dalarna. It’s been manufactured since the 17^th century, but the most beautiful and high quality horses were made during the end of the 19^th century and the beginning of the 20^th century.

The biggest Dalahorse you can find in Sweden, of course. Outside the Swedish city Avesta, a 13 metre tall Dalahorse decorates the landscape.

My brother had a period in his teens when his answer to everything was “Dalahäst”.

-          What’s your favourite food?

-          Dalahäst.

-          What are you doing?

-          Dalahäst.

-          Would you mind helping out here?!

-          Dalahäst.

It kind of got on your nerves sometimes. Finally he has grown up.

Waking up at 8 30am on a Tuesday.

Wow, I haven’t woken up this late on a Tuesday since… I don’t know when. 9 months?

Ahhhhhhhh, and I LOVE it! What could possibly be better than relaxing in bed til u FEEL like getting up, cook some breakfast, and eat it in total harmony, knowing that you ain’t putting your fot at work today.

You see, folks, I worked my last day on Friday. Now the count down has started for something bigger. In 13 days I’ll leave Sweden for some adventure in Kenya, Africa.

Which means that I will get a lot of things to write here on the Swedish Way. It’s always good for your inspiration to get to see something else, and since I’m pretty sure that Kenya is way different to Sweden, I will get a lot of clear thoughts about my native country as I spend my months in Africa.

I hope all you people out there will have a splendid day today! ‘Cause we all deserve it!