September

Yes, it has been September for a while now. Some might think it’s a bit late to be writing about a new month at this stage. But there are reasons why I’m running a little behind. Life got in the way—a phenomenon many of you will surely recognize. There have been some extremely positive events, and one that was less cheerful. For instance, my dear wife and I went on a trip to Dublin, where, among other things, we saw Bon Jovi. There is a lot to tell about that, but I’ll save it for another time.

However, things took a much sadder turn after that. My beloved grandmother passed away at the age of 92. That is a respectable age, yet the grief and sense of loss remain. She was one of the people who deeply influenced me and helped shape my childhood. Back then, we lived in Stockholm but frequently visited my grandparents down in Småland. On a few occasions, I spent entire summers there.

The last thing she said truly reflects the kind of person she was. Her heart was failing, and a very dangerous operation was absolutely necessary. When the doctor described the situation, she said...

"I love life, but I’m not afraid to die. Let’s do this!"

My mother quoted this to me at the funeral. An attitude worth admiring! I'm not quite there yet, I must admit.

My grandmother loved flowers, and I took this photo during a lunch break while thinking of her.

On a more positive note, I have embarked on yet another course of study at a mature age. This time, it is more practical than my previous academic pursuits. I am going to become a chef! Admittedly, I already call myself "The Swedish Chef" in knife-throwing circles—and that is no lie. I have worked as a chef for a few years, but now I am getting formal training as well! I have started my second week; naturally, it is intense at the start, with a lot of new information to take in. The connection to knives is, of course, not far-fetched, given that they are among the primary tools of the trade in a kitchen. I am not sure how natural a bridge that is to the subject, but that is how it turned out!

SRM Gent on another walk

Aside from that, there is a lot happening here on the blog as well—provided I can actually find the time to write it all down. Naturally, I have new knives to showcase. The list includes a rather eclectic mix—take, for instance, a handful of models from Civivi such as the Incindie, Over Yonder, and Neurohaptic. Those who follow me on Instagram will likely recognize a few of them. Beyond that, I plan to present a couple of throwing knives from Italy and Bodomar Knives; first up is a throwing version of the Glock combat knife. Also lined up is a hot new release from our friends at ANV Knives in the Czech Republic: a compact, EDC-oriented folding knife called the A090.

I also have a small lineup of knives waiting to be reviewed; first up is an elegant creation from Lionsteel - a Molletta design called the Q4ttro. Next in line is a rather brutal throwing knife: TacticalEdgedDojo's The Spike DC. I’ve now logged enough throws with it to offer an informed opinion.

Finally, there’s another somewhat unusual piece: a rescue knife from Al Mar with the aptly chosen name "Rescue Assist." That was more or less the plan. But as you know, things never quite turn out that way. Then again, if you don’t have a plan, you don’t have anything to deviate from, either!

/ J - overwhelmed