A walk in the park

Today I took a walk in the park (Kungsparken in Malmö to be exact). Spring has sprung here and the trees, bushes, plants and flowers are just breathtakingly beautiful.

Until this Spring I do not think I have realized how many trees actually bloom!

I think my realization of the beauty around me has to do with a slower pace and that I am actually more present in my day-to-day life.

Lilacs are one of my favourites - their smell just makes me stop and smile :-)

Poppys are another favourite. Love the fact that they fade so quickly when you pick them that it is not worth it - leave them be and enjoyed them where they grow.

Upon exiting the park I found this magnificent chestnut tree - beautiful, isn't it?

Well, the sad side of that tree is that has a dual role. During the warmer months it is also home to some of Malmö's homeless people.

Why does a socially responsible country like Sweden have homeless people?

Astroturfing

I just learnt about astroturfing (no, not putting artificial grass in a stadium) but the not-very-nice activity of formal public relations campaigns in politics and advertising that tries to give the impression of being spontaneous grass-roots movements. The link is astroturf = fake grass. These campaigns are many times paid for by big corporations trying to get sympathy for their own agenda. So, beware what you read on the internet - read it with a critical mind.

To learn more, check out these websites: Astroturfing explained and AntiAstroturfing