Several days of the year are designated as flag days in Sweden. On these days, such as National Day on June 6, citizens and businesses who own flags are encouraged to fly them outside.

The public transit buses in Stockholm participate in this observance. On these days, the tops of all the buses are adorned with two flags on the front.

This week we had just such a day, the crown princess’ birthday.

Victoria, the crown princess of Sweden, who was married last summer (to a commoner! gasp!) turned 34 on Wednesday.

My 34th birthday was celebrated in much the same way. Oh wait, I’m thinking of something else. Never mind.