The Swedish expression “mellan hägg och syren” really says it all. It is an expression rich in scent and joy.

I love this time of the year. Late spring (which came early this year) that promises a long, beautiful summer with endless time outdoors. The shades of green are soft and crisp; the white blossoms are abundant and simply breathtaking, and sometimes the white petals fall graciously through the air like soft snow.

It is the time “between Bird Cherry and Lilac” – “mellan hägg och syren”. The expression is said to originate from a cobbler’s sign saying his shop was closed “mellan hägg och syren”.

The Bird Cherry is in full bloom (depending on where in Sweden you are) and we are awaiting the Lilacs. Both add a wonderful scent to the gardens and the neighborhood.

Another word describing this time of the year is “försommar” – “pre-summer”