Thursday, April 14, 2011

Seasons

While many around the world doubt the notion that Stockholm has a season other than Winter, I am happy to say that they are wrong. I laughed at the notion while hanging out in a couple lawn chairs with new friends out in front of my apartment complex. Sure, it isn't quite like the weather my sister Ashley is enjoying in Arizona, but I will take 60 and sunny any day! It isn't just the weather that is making the city feel warmer, it is the activity that seems to increase daily throughout the city. People are out in the city squares, and the customary "Fika" breaks are now taking place on park benches and outdoor patios rather than the comforts of the lounge chairs within the coffee shop. "Fika" roughly translates to "a coffee break" and take place between friends, colleagues, relatives, and even strangers. If you want to shoot an arrow straight through a Swede's heart....find a good coffee shop. Apparently, the joke is that American Coffee is more like a Canoe than cup of Swedish coffee...why? It is closer to water...

Coffee breaks aside, the waterways that wind through the city are becoming more and more beautiful each day. The sun, the skyline, and the sparkling blue scandinavian sea are really something to behold. I still find it slightly surreal that I am becoming familiar with the sights and sounds of a city that is half the world away from my family (blood family that is). My new family in the Mean Machines organization is making sure that I am included in everyday activities. Luckily for me, it seems that more and more of those activities are football related. With our first game only two weeks away from this Saturday, we are beginning to ratchet things up at practice, both mentally and physically. We had our first scrimmage this past Sunday even, and for a preseason session with only 2 team practices under our belt, I would say it went pretty well. We still have quite a bit to work on, but I am sure Coach Johansson and the rest of the leaders on the team will make sure we get it right over Easter Camp. For the first time in my life, I will have to attend an Easter Mass and gather up my football shells (helmet and shoulder pads) rather than egg shells. So all of you out there who get to look for some eggs, color me up a nice one and enjoy a Peep for me!

The past week has been pretty awesome. I was able to participate in a moderate level of hooliganism at the first Soccer game of the year between Djugarden and AIK. It was exactly what I had expected from a European soccer match. There were crazy fans, fire in the stands, riot control, and absolutely zero scoring. It was great to be a part of a wild crowd, partake in chants I couldn't understand, and most of all, to have an unforgettable time at a soccer match. I never thought it would happen...

This weekend I will be going to Prague to visit a good family friend Zach Forster. It will be my first trip to the Czech Republic and the first trip out of Sweden since I have been part of the Mean Machines. Though I love Stockholm, it will definitely add to the experience of playing ball overseas if I can make a few trips before the season starts. I am happy to be checking this one off of my list! I have heard nothing but positive things about the city. Notably that the architecture is stunning, and that food is cheap. With an Idahoan there to join me, it looks like a can't-lose situation.

I still have taken many pictures that I have yet to upload. I am not sure if I should post them through blogspot or through facebook, but either way, I promise they will be coming soon! Hopefully I can include some new photos of the room. Ever since I moved downstairs it seems to have turned into a luxury suite....well, as luxury as you can get in this sort of accommodation. I have a closet, a big bed, a tv, and my own bathroom. Hopefully I will be able to slingbox in the near future, so I can catch big Daddio broadcasting games in the booth. For those of you who haven't heard, Danny Hawkins himself will be in Tallahassee, Florida to announce the Seminoles Spring Game. Should be very exciting! As long as he drops "Boo-Ya" at least once, i will consider it a victory.

On other family notes, I would like to send a couple congratulations...
Dad-Spring Game....big time
Mom-Great Job showing the house AND with the Easter baskets, my teammates are excited!
Ashley-Checked out the new Sun Devils brand identity, NICE WORK! Way cool!
Brittany-Ballin' outrageous with the coolest babies in the world, she has trained Jaxson to do tons of amazing tricks and Amari to smile on command (practically) - skype them soon!
Drew-Not only got a job as a Summer Counselor but continues to be a bright light in the Music Industry by hitting up all the concerts I am missing out on!

Friends and Family - I love you all!

Hope to talk soon,

Cody Hawkins :)

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