The Gavle Goat Blog 2008
27 December
Dear friends! Last night was even hotter and it's time for me to say good bye! The last straw is still on fire when I write to you - broken hearted. Someone did not appreciate me enough and set me on fire. I woke up with a terrible heat and realized that this was it. I was very tired after the last attack and must have slept very deeply. Did you witness the fire and saw the arsonist? Please e-mail the Goat Committee that will read my e-mails at gavlegoat@merjuligavle.se
It has been an amazing Christmas with you all and I wish you a Happy New Year and I am already looking forward to see you all again.
With burning love,
The Gavle Goat
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Comments
Thank you and all of the people in Gavle for bringing so much joy and happiness to the world. I love seeing you every year and look forward to seeing you next year. Rest well.
Penny
I like to imagine that every year, when the Goat Committee sifts through the ashes left after the burning, they find a tiny straw goat, which they carry off to an undisclosed location. There they feed it barley and whiskey until it grows into a big, strong (and, admittedly, somewhat flammable) Julbock. God jul, caprine phoenix of Gävle. See you next year.
Joe, Uppsala
What rotten spoil sports! I will miss the bocken. Why did they have to destroy it don't they have better things to do?
rosemary gaskell
I'm hearbroken too! Such ignorants doing that, but I thank you dear Goat for this nice Christmas mood, you've helped bringing to us!
Barbara from Copenhagen
No! No! You don't burn down something that stands for goodness and hope. You don't burn down something that the world watches with love. We watch the goat being brought back each year, we watch him everyday the whole holiday season, and we watch him being put away until the next year. We appreciate the fine folks in Gavle who bring him to us and who personify him for us. Never should we make a tradition of burning him down!
Vivian Olcott
I thought for certain once you had made it past Christmas that you'd be safe until the new year. I was shocked to drop in and find your burnt remains. Fortunately we had one of your smaller cousins to help deliver here and to guard our tree. You were a true inspiration to him. Hopefully we'll see you again next year.
Lem
Goodbye Beloved Goat! Till next year. I hope that you have a better life.
Jeanette ManilaOh, my goodness! What a shock to see your burnt remains on the webcam! I am heartbroken! RIP...
Marion, Scotland
Oh, I'm so sorry to see you go, watching the goat has become a tradition in my home! We'll look forward to next year!
Bob
Why not just have the burning of the goat be part of the tradition (at least til new years?)
Shawn
Well done Mr Goat for making it to Christmas! Pity you're not seeing in the New Year with us as well. You're definitely hot stuff, look forward to seeing you again next Christmas!!
Julia
Don't those arsonists know that there are twelve days of Christmas? They should have left you alone! Baaa Humbug to the arsonists! Thank you, Oh Goat, for spreading Christmas cheer! Here's looking forward to seeing you next year.
Larry of Charlotte, NC, USA
I am desolate at losing you, dear bock. You have represented for me the Christmas celebrations of my childhood with family now gone. I think it was very selfish of the person who destroyed you to take you away from so many of us who love you and what you represent. Sleep well and I look forward to visiting you again next year.
Elsa in Worcester, Massachusetts
My dear goat, I always thought you were hot, but not this hot! You must have more fire proofing next year, there are some nasty people in the world. It will be lonely ringing in the New Year without you.
Janet Musich
The first thing every morning during this season I look at your web cams with great love for you because you have made my days so happy. This morning I look at the web cams with a broken heart. How very sad for all of us who have enjoyed you so much. To us you are not just a straw goat, you are a very special part of our Christmas. Thanks so much to the folks there who take care of you and bring you to us each year!!! With much love from one of your many admirers.
Vivian Olcott
My flight for Stockholm leaves tonight. Looks like I won't get to see you after all. I still plan to go to Gavle and visit where you were. I'm completely devistated right now.
Meredith
So sad to see you go (and in a very cruel manner, vet du). Christmas ended too soon this year. Hope you mend well in the off season.
Dave
Poor goat! Some people have no heart, burning down an innocent little (or big) goat who is only spreading holiday cheer and love... The Gavle firemen were brilliant, they were on the scene fast, is too bad they couldnt save you.. Please come back soon, we will all miss you so much. Thank you for bringing us all so much enjoyment this holiday!
Karna
oh my, what happened??? I was away from the webcam for a few hours and all I see is steaming wreckage :( I suppose this means we won't see you till next year? It won't be the same without you!
elaine emmi
oh no...our poor dear goat...it's 10:45 p.m. in Indiana and we just checked in on our beloved goat to find him gone.....we are heartsick.
katherine
Oh Goat, Beloved Goat, I am heartbroken!
Maragret
How dare they try to set you on fire !! I have loved looking at you every day this Christmas season. You bring me so much joy. And thank you to the writer who posted the map link so I could see your footprints in the grass.
Barbara, Washington State, USA
I am so sorry that someone burned your leg. Thank goodness someone was around to save you. Surely the mean person who burned you is not from Gavle! I wish I could have gotten a picture so that this mean person could be caught. He needs to be sent out of Gavle never to return. I am so glad that you are OK.
Vivian Olcott
26 December
Had a very hot night. I woke up when one of my stunning legs were on fire and a brave goat saver saved me by using a fire-extinguisher. My hero, where are you? Please get in touch again. It all happened so fast! I'm quite well considering the circumstances and sudden wake-up call. I only got a minor injury - so you can problably not even see it at the web cams. Did anyone see the arsonist in Gavle or at the web cams at 02.30 AM? Please send me pics! We will get them!!!
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Comments
Citizen L., thank you for the explanation. Yes, I imagine our dear goat has had some hectic days. However, I have another question. Could you tell me the names of the street that crosses Södra Kungsgatan, so that I may be more certain of finding the right place? My friends will tell you that I get lost easily. :-) Thank you!
Margaret
Congratulations on the successful completion of your rounds. You need and deserve a good, long nap. My chemistry professor said that equal parts honey, lemon juice, and whiskey were the key to overcoming a cold. The concoction is to be drunk while sitting with a different colored sock on each foot (or hoof). When one sees two socks of the same color, one has had enough. :-)
Margaret
25 December
Back from this years delivery of Christmas presents and I am totally burned out. On top of that, I've got at terrible cold. You know how easy you get sick once you relax after working really hard for quite some time! The brace has been too much this year - can you imagine that I made it and delivered again!?! How do one cure a bad cold quickly? What does other artists do to be able to be on stage night after night? I can't give up now! Show must go on!
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Comments
merry christmas mr. goat. we are just getting ready to eat our christmas dinner here in florida. we have enjoyed your stay with us this again this year and are already looking forward to your returning in 2009.
wally & rachel
Merry Christmas Bocken... oh bocken goat oh bocken goat how lovely are your ribbons, you stand and stare in gavle square, full of straw and christmas cheer, oh bocken goat oh bocken goat how lovely are your ribbons!
Gemma and Dom
Warmest greetings to the Gavle Christmas Goat and his fans - MELE KALIKIMAKA (Hawaiian), MALIGAYANG PASKO (Philippines)
Jeanette Manila
FRÖHLICHE WEIHNACHTEN lieber Julbock! Wir trinken jetzt ein Bockbier (und vorher vielleicht einen Glögg) auf Deinem Wohlergehen! Danke für die nette Adventzeit und lass Dich schön bescheren heute Abend! Bis bald - liebe Grüße aus dem kalten Süddeutschland, auch an alle Bock-Fans überall auf der Welt!
Tinna Q vid Schwarzwald
God Jul from Oregon. Have a safe and happy holidays. Glad to see you've made it to see another Christmas. Have fun drinking julmust and watching Kalle Anka.
Dave
Merry Christmas, Goat! We have been checking you on the web cams for several years now, and am so glad you are not engulfed in flames!
CT Blake & Family
24 december
Christmas Eve in Sweden and it's time for me to deliver the Christmas presents - just like in the old days. My wish list is even longer now and it makes me very exited. Merry Christmas, dear friends!
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Comments
A lovely fire-proof scarf would give you a warm Jul look. But, alas, it's a bit too late to start knitting one now. Perhaps next year. God Jul och Gott Nytt Ar till alla.
Diane-NY
Å pilling!!!!
Totte
Margaret asked about the the buildings surrounding our friend. I think he is quite busy right now so a fellow citizen try to answer. In webcam1 you see Södra Kungsgatan (Southern Kings Road). Shops, restaurants and pubs you find here. From the view of webcam 2 you have look at our old Court house. In the building to the left you find Heartbreak Hotel. Don't try this if you like a good nights sleep in Gävle.... It's a resturant and night club :-)))) Like to have look at the territory of The Gavle goat? Paste this in to your web-browser: http://kartor.eniro.se/ Select "Utsikt" and Gävle in the upper right corner of the map. A nice arial south view of the Gotes home town will now appear. Move a little to the west along the Gavle river. Two bridges, a little bit to the south. Zoom in. Do you see the footprints in the grass? :-)))) A 3.6 tonnes( 7936 lb) goat do not leave unmarked..... Merry Christmas.
Citiizen L.
Hi Goat! There is a fellow here in Calgary Alberta Canada who is an avid mountain climber. Sort of 'goat' like you might say. Alas, he is getting on in years, and thus he's had a hand in establishing a new 'club'... for aging mountain climbers. You may be wondering why I am mentioning all this? Well, in a sense, it is a wish for longevity... for YOU. You see... all the members in this club are getting on in years. Sooo... I think it would be wonderful if YOU could eventually become a qualified honourary member. Oh, by the way... the name of this group is, "The OLD Goats Club". His name is Dick, if you want to contact him directly.
Merry Christmas from Annabelle & Wayne
23 December
Oh, tank you so much - what a wish list! Read it bellow! Last year the Goat Commitee decided to give me wet, brown straw - so this Christmas could become absolutely fabulous!
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Comments and wishes
Fire
T.Lee
Dear Mr. Goat! my friend Wendy and I think you are worthy of all the finest gifts a goat could want. Maybe you would like to have a blanket and pillow? Maybe special warmers for your horns, if the lights don't keep them warm enough. A medal for patience and bravery, as shiny as can be, to wear around your proud neck. A radio to play Christmas songs for you and friends who visit you! And good wishes from all around the world, of course you already have those!
Merry Christmas, Mr. Goat!
Katherine
I think you should ask for an extra coat of flame retardant and some owl decoys. (they keep the ducks away).
Emily
You are worthy of a good online store so that those of us around the world can remember you all year long! And duck security, and anything else your dear goat heart desires! We love you Gavle Goat, thank you for making our holidays better and brighter!
Karna
Do you like oatmeal chocolate chip cookies? Goats like oats, right? When we had goats, for a treat I would make some thin oatmeal, then add molasses and raisins. The goats loved it, but the white goat's beard always turned a tan color from getting wet. (The mostly-black goat's beard stayed black.) :-)
Margaret
wouldn't a nice trip around the world be the perfect christmas present? with a stop in salt lake city, utah, where i live and in bloomington, indiana, where the University High School fans congregate
elaine emmi
You would want a Star Trek -like forcefield around you, which protects you ! And maybe a large foce field so you can fit a possibly Mrs Julbocken in too :) ???
lightfighter
You are worthy of so much, where do we start? How about a trip around the world to visit all of us who would love to see you in person.
Vivian Olcott
22 December
The Goat Committee wonders what I wish for Christmas. Eh, well. I am a quite modest little goat and would need your support in order to make a proper wish. What do you think that I am worthy of..?
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21 December
I’m thrilled to be able to celebrate Christmas the third year in a row! Most people want some days off during Christmas, but I increase the speed. All these mobile phone cameras makes even nights busy, so I don’t have time to rest. Did you know that there is a goat beer? It comes from Germany. Well, it’s obvious that beer is a popular drink in my neighborhoods during the weekends and that is usually a high risk factor for me. So the name goat beer is a bit terrifying itself. The company “The Goat's Brewery” was founded in Gävle. Is that a coincidence?
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Comments
Yay, it's snowing again, and you now have a lovely white coat for Christmas! Maybe that will help keep the ducks away too...
Karna, California, USA
Could you tell us a little about the buildings surrounding your park?
Margaret
20 December
My web cams have been visited from 105 different countries now. Another six, and we will break last year’s record! The wild ducks have backed off since the are fed by photographing families in the Boulogner Forrest (the town park). Chinese surfers, why don’t you publish some delicious recipes of Beijing Duck? That might solve my problem...
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Comments
Oh Gavle Goat, you gave me a good laugh talking about Beijing duck recipes. You have a wonderful sense of humor!
Vivian Olcott
19 December
Enough's enough! The wild ducks have started to chew on me! They are apparently very fond of barley and eat without even thinking of the owner of the straw fur! It’s not funny to have little ducks nibbling on one’s legs. It’s hard to see them as well, because they are hiding under my little belly. Otherwise I would have nibbled back. Ouch, they are back again!
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Comments
Oh no, not ducks! I thought you were looking a little thinner! Or perhaps it's the stress from what happened with your little brother! Maybe you need a horn to frighten away arsonists and ducks! Keep going, Mr Goat!
Julia
You poor Gavle Goat, you suffer so much just so we can get much pleasure out of watching you from all over the world. First the officials pull straw from your fur and then the ducks chew on you. Well, the ducks love you just as we do, they just show it in a different way!
Vivian Olcott
Hello Mr. Goat! Probably big goat boots would not be so practical....we're sorry the ducks find you tasty... it's likely very hard to reason with a hungry duck...
Katherine from Indiana, USA
18 December
Did you know that Christmas Goats are one the oldest Christmas traditions in Sweden? I’m only 42 years myself, but some 100 years ago, young people used to visit their neighbors and sing songs about the Christmas Goat. Ah, I wonder what happened with that beautiful tradition… In those days they served us wonderful food from the Christmas dinner table as well. But those were the days. We had to start working to earn our living and struggled to deliver Christmas presents to twinkling eyes of the children. That was before Santa Claus came into the picture and took over the market completely. Nowadays we’re only beautiful and decorative anywhere we stand. Oh dear, becoming nostalgic…
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Comments
Andy, don't you think that your comment is a blinding flash of the obvious? The challenge is when the attack will come not if... We are still pulling for the Yule Goat here in Djibouti.
Brett
Bite your tongue, Andy -- I think many of us enjoy the goat not because of the threat, but because he is cheery! I love to check in on him throughout the day and see if it is snowing, if he is being visited by any families and children. The lights of downtown Gavle look very festive. Especially from here in Florida, where we'll never see that kind of snow!
Anna H.
17 December
Time for little brother to move on - but he is a tough little goat, so he will be back next year!
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Kommentarer
Naplm the goat! Burn it, Burn it, Burn it
Oberst Radl
Typical behaviour of a bully.
bob stonehouse
If the goat weren't threatened every year, would there be much interest in it?
Andy Hughes
Tulle is a University of Utah goatwatcher along with many more of us, who have been your most loyal fans for years! I might have to join Tulle and her Nobel hubby next summer on the trek to your summer quarters. Hope you stay unburned! Merry Christmas!
elaine emmi
I visit you every morning, dear julbock, and am so sorry that you have lost lillebror. You are Christmas for me.
Elsa in Massachusetts
Dear Mr. Goat, your little brother lives on in our hearts. We will look for him next year. Please stay safe, and enjoy the holiday season!!
Katherine from Indiana, USA
It is so much fun to watch the webcam every day and see the weather change and snow on cool julbocken and people walking and taking pictures.... revenge for the destruction of little brother bocken ..... !!!!! Give 'em a kick with those legs of yours
lightfighter
I am so sorry that your brother is hurt. My family is praying for your brother to get better. I am 7 years old, how old is your brother?
Emma Costell
16 December
Thank you so much for all the wonderful e-mails regarding my baby brother's condition. He is so happy that you are supporting him! I have to dress his wounds now – will get back to you as soon as I can. Bye for now…
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15 December
My baby brother was attacked during the weekend. I wonder if it was the same guy who climed on me as well? Shame on you who hits defenceless little straw goats. My baby brother was already afraid of the dark!
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Comments
I'll huff and I'll puff and I'll blow the goat down!
Norm Yard
What a shame. I'm sorry ! Don't feel to bad. Gavle Goat can you please say hello to a friend of my mum ? He is called Larz.
charlotte robertson
Answer: Hi Larz - Merry Christmas!
That's such a shame! Is he going to be rebuilt? Glad you're okay though. I'm coming to visit you (from the USA) later this month!
Meredith
Oh Mr. Goat, I am so sorry. I did not know you had a baby brother goat. Where does he live? I hope he can be healed. We are keeping a good thought for you and yours!
Katherine
Oh Bocken... why didn't you help your little brother? couldn't you hear him shout out for help?
Gemma and Dom
Welcome back Bocken. It gladens my heart to see you again.
Rosemary Gaskell
What a sad day in Gavle! I am so sorry for your baby brother. I hope he can be mended and stand proud soon. Shame, shame on the awful folks who did that to him. It must have happened during the very thick fog.
Vivian Olcott
Oh my, someone did that last year, too. It makes me sad.
Barbara, Washington State, USA
How sad! We are thinking of you, little brother bocken!
Anna H.
Go Bocken GO GO GO , you will never burn ! NEVER !
Lightfighter
14 December
Oh, I survived the night! Thank you so much for the guards and the snow blanket. Did anyone miss that I am number one at the Culture Chart in one of the local newspapers? Well, culture could mean agriculture as well and I sure am cultivated by a cultivator. But I’m certainly not a product as they call the younger celebs. But I am a trademark. Not playing the goat…
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Comments
Oh, there you are my great Gavle Goat. I could barely see lights there, but now I see it is just very foggy from web cam 1. I'm so happy that web cam 2 shows you standing so tall and proud! I hope the fog passes soon.
Vivian Olcott
So glad you're still safe, Mr. Goat! It looks very foggy and spooky right now. Don't be frightened, we are all watching out for you! Love from Indiana, USA
Katherine
I am very happy to log onto the web cam this morning and see you standing tall, proud and decorated with snow !!
Barbara, Washington State, USA
13 December
The creepy night of the 13 December is getting closer. It’s called the Lucia Day in Sweden. High risk night for me and I’ve seen hockey-fans lurking around in town today. But I’m still alive! Someone wonders if I am in love will any nice goat-lady. Maybe you think that I love myself too much for that. :) Well, I do have a short time in freedom (1, 5 months if things are going well) and then I literally work day and night. Who has energy to charm ladies then? Not easy to be a goat in the career and in the limelight. Do they love me for the great guy I am or because I’m world famous? Who can you really trust?
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Comments
You are so funny. I love a goat with a sense of humor. We are all watching after you -- we all hope you can stay safe.
Anna H.
A very warm hello from across the world!(hope i dont melt the snow). It gives me so much joy to see our Dear Gavle Goat in his full glory! I love to watch him stand regally in the Castle square. It brings fond memories of my visit to Gavle years ago. I will never forget!
Jeanette, Manila
Over here in America, we have a Farmer's market, where they sell the most wonderful Goat Cheese. I'm sure if you sweet talk the lady, maybe you can get a date with her. ;-) She's a good cook.
Eric Farmer
12 December
Wow, what a thrilling final of the Swedish Idol! Little me appeared at the beginning of the TV-program and the host Peter Jihde clamied that Alice is the hottest in Gävle – even hotter than the Christmas Goat (that’s what he called me). Alice did not win the final, but picked up the silver – and they usually have a great career! The Nobel designer Gunnar Cyrén has made me in silver as well, so now there are two of us... Good night idols, fans and friends!
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Comments
OOOOHHH Dansken, we will keep an eye on you!!! How can you say BURN to the most famous Bocken in the world? How mean!!! I am now recording the webcam, nothing will go unnoticed!!! ha!!! Santa will put a coal in your stocking!!
Ellen P Ontario Canada
11 December
What a day! I'm telling you it hurt when the Goat Committee pulled out the straw from my fur this morning. But I don't care as long as I (at least a part of me) had the honour to meet with a Nobel Price winner! And his wife Tulle of course who is a big fan of mine. Hi Tulle! She watches my web cams day and night.
The Nobel Price winner Martin sat next to Crown Princess Victoria at the Nobel banquet last night - and they spoke about ME!!!! I would love to meet with her as well. Her boyfriend Daniel comes from my neighbourhoods so who knows..? The Nobel Price winner and his lovley family is planning to visit Gävle next summer and have promised to visit my summer palace (storage) So arsonists, back off! I will survive to see that day!
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Comments
Good luck with those hockey players. If we weren't so busy with pirates we would have to send some Marines...
LCDR Morash
I wish for a store full of Gavle goods online, and two more cameras, so our dear bocken can be seen from all sides! That snow looks so good on you! Is Santa coming for photos with you again this year?
Karna
I think you are the most handsome today as I've ever seen! Could you mention to your webmasters that perhaps some of us would really love some nice high-resolution photos of you with your blanket of snow? I would love to put you on my desktop, but it's hard to find nice, large pictures. I'm sorry it hurt when they removed the straw from your fur.
Anna H.
We love you Gavle Goat! Your web cam makes it much easier to make it through a long day at work. I work with a native of Sweden named Thomas, and he has shared his love of you with the entire office.
David (Pennsylvania, United States)
burn!!!!
dansken
wished for a clock and there it is!! I wonder what else would appear if I wished for it???
Diane-NY
Congratulations on being honored at the Nobel Prize event - what an honor !! I think you and your town look magical covered in snow.
Barbara, Washington State, USA
10 December
Martin Chalfie, Winner of the 2008 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, and his wife Tulle Hazelrigg are fans of mine and had hoped to meet with me in Gävle during the visit in Sweden. But the Nobel program is very busy, so they have to settle with a part of me instead. The Goat Committee will pull out straw from my belly tomorrow morning (hope it doesn’t hurt…) and then hand over the straw with a silver goat –designed by Gunnar Cyrén from Gävle, who also designed the glasses and cutlery that are used for the Nobel dinner tonight. The hand over will take place at stunning Grand Hôtel in Stockholm. One has become a Nobel Goat…
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Comments
You were a Nobel goat before they pulled a straw from you. The world is watching the most famous goat in the world. How can you be more noble then that?
Betty & Jack Horn USA
Well, congratulations to the Nobel Goat. You look very striking today with that blanket of snow on your back and around your feet. Makes you look rather nobel!
Vivian Olcott
Hockey players aren't all bad. Thanks for the clock!
Valerie, Wisconsin USA
9 December
Imagine that the American army in Djibouti Africa is watching over me via the web cams! They are concerned about my safety. I feel quite safe with that kind of friends… I heard that the police in Gävle are worried about the ice hockey fans from Stockholm that will come here for the weekend. The rumour says that the fans will try to burn me down. Time for some advice against that on the phone from Africa, guys?!?
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Comments
I agree with Anna that you might want to beef up security for the weekend. I would like to recommend some Marines :) Oh, you might want to move your fire extinguishers a little further away incase you do catch fire as it will be hard to pick them up if flames are over them.
LCDR Brett Morash
I just wanted to let you know we are all cheering for you. In support of you we are all eating delicious cubed goat for Christmas.
Ron Kerensky
You look very cheery with all your lights working and your fresh layer of snow. I hope those hockey players are good to you. Maybe you should beef up security for a few days!
Anna H.
Burn boken burn bocken inferno! (only joking!)
Gemma and Dom
Indiana (in the middle of USA) loves you, Gavle Goat! Stay safe and Merry Christmas!
Katherine
8 December
So typical me to worry when there is absolutely no need to. The TV-crew from Swedish Idol came of course to me - first thing. And Alice was amazing at the other square. Do not forget to watch Alice and myself at the final of the Swedish Idol at TV4 on Friday. We rock!!!
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Comments
Don't worry you are safe in Galve. I'm sure that they are going to protect you from harm. We are watching from the United States. If Chuck Norris has anything to say about it you will make it to the New Year.
Chuck Norris
7 December
Tomorrow it’s time for the two champions to meet. Alice from Swedish Idol and myself. The TV-crew will arrive in the morning so I have ordered early morning ablutions. Apparently, Alice will be met by a white limousine at the railway station. I usually go by truck or sky lift. Have a few things to learn there… The red carpet is rolled out and there’s a lot of suck up going on. On top of that, my own spokesperson is involved in this. What happens with my important PR? I hope that she has infiltrated the event in order to direct some attention to the world famous champion. Alice will appear at the Town Hall Square. I live at the Castle Square. Hear the difference..? :) Well, welcome home dear Alice!
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Comments
Don't worry, no matter what happens tomorrow, you will always be the biggest star in Gavle. Just remember that folks all over the world are watching you!
Vivian Olcott
6 December
My horn lights are back - and I'm back again!
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Comments
Could you hear me cheering all the way from Florida when your beautiful horn lights came back on? I watched the two brave men fixing your lights and I'm so happy that you are looking very handsome again. I know those men must have been very cold and I hope there were two cups of hot chocolate waiting for them in their truck.
Penny from Florida
I see the lights on your horns have been repaired! You look wonderful!
Anna H.
It is 10:30 pm December 6, east coast US time, so it is 4:30 am December 7 in Gavle. And your horn lights are shining brightly again, and you look so majestic. I'm sure you are the biggest star in Gavle.
Vivian Olcott
Hurrah! The horn lights are on again!!
Julia
5 December
My dear college Alice is now qualified for the final of the Swedish Idol at TV4. Congratulations!!! The rumor says that she will visit me (well, Gävle…) on Monday and bring the TV-team. I bet the cameras won’t miss the BIG attractions in town. My bodyguards must be informed at once, so that they won’t drive off the team. And the horn lights MUST be switched on again and shine as bright as the younger star Alice. Goat Committee!!!!!
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Comments
How nice it would be if someday a clock and thermometer could be placed within sight of the cameras. Nice to see you and the people of Sweden again.
Diane-NY
4 December
Still having trouble with the lights in my horns. The Goat Committee has to rent a sky lift and fix some other stuff before I can sparkle again. Hrm, I can’t see what takes them so long… On the other hand, they are working on connecting more broadband and a live web cam. As you wished. They seem to listen more to your wishes more than my modest ones – so keep wishing!
On Friday another idol from Gävle will win praise at TV4 – the TV-channel that keeps reporting about me as well… Anyway, 17 year old Alice will sing and (hopefully) reach the final of the “Swedish Idol”. Alice; if you ever need an international coach, a PR-genius or just a great friend! Showbiz is a tough world, but idols from Gävle always support each other.
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Comments
I'm so glad to see you back again and looking as handsome as ever! I will be keeping a look out for you over the coming weeks to make sure nothing happens to you. You are a very brave goat to go without the nasty flame-retarding fluid. With love and a distant hug,
Marion Webster, Scotland
We are very excited watching you from Djibouti Africa. We are all wishing for your safety and hope to see you make the New Year.
LCDR Morash
3 December
After a few days in the limelight, I felt that I had to have time to contemplate. I have been incognito on and off today. That might explain the darkness around me. Another explanation might be that I’ve had damp where I keep my electrical cables – which made the lights in my horns and the searchlight go out. The goat Construction Manager Håkan Ollikkala is working on a solution as we speak. To be honest, I’m not a shy goat that wants to be overshadowed by others…
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Comments
Stay safe, Gavle Goat. I have no wish to see you burn. I just didn't know if you were like a Yule Pinata and meant to be destroyed. In this case, it's more like if someone tried to burn down the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center, New York City.
Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Charlie
Dear Goat Friend,
Good to see you again. I like the new view of you looking across the Henry
Moore sculpture. (At least it looks like one of his..) I heard that you have
new straw on you this year. It does look nice.
Keep in touch,
Cynthia from New Jersey, USA
I was wondering about the lights today and hoped it wasn't caused by vandalism !!
Barbara Livdahl
You look so handsome standing there with the snow around your feet. I miss the lights on your horns, but there are so many beautiful lights around you that I can see from web came 2. Such wonderful views this year from the web cams. I hope that the lights can be fixed before it gets dark tonight because I can tell how you like to shine for all the folks to see!
Vivian Olcott
You look very festive with that layer of snow! Awww!
Anna H.
2 december
Have a look at the film from the opening ceremony. Ah, I’m watching it over and over again. My web cams have had visitors from 75 different countries so far. I wonder how to say goat in different languages… Bock in Swedish, pukki in Finnish, козёл in Russian. These are the most active countries (besides Sweden).
1. United States
2. United Kingdom
3. Germany
4. Finland
5. Canada
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CommentsOh you had your opening ceremony? Could you post some pictures here please? I missed it, was uhm working... :-)
Ellen Papenburg Sannes, Ontario, Canada
I think next year you should set up a little online store front and sell Gavle Goat things... like Cafepress or on Etsy. Like snowglobes!
Anna H.
Hello Goat, where are you?? we cannot see you on the web cam and we are worried about you!
Jeremy
1 December
I’ve been told that one can make bets on me on the Internet again. Last year, most gamblers thought that I would make it, but this year the odds are the opposite. The odds on that I will not be burned down before & PM on New Year’s Eve (British Time) is modest 1.60. I can see that a few conceivable goat burners have visited my blog as well. What has happened to the world while I was gone? It can’t be recession for goats too..?
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Comments
Christmas here in Southern California is not the same without you, dear goat. I'm glad to see you're back and looking as fabulous as ever.
Elizabeth Ockey
30 November
Oh, thank you all for coming to my opening ceremony. You were 12 000 people around me and it made me so warm in my straw fur. At the end of the fireworks I even saw snowflakes slowly tossing down. Just about perfect – almost as in a movie. The radio profile Titti Schultz from Gävle held a speech (as I understood it) pointing out the straw goats importance in the world. I might have to wear sun glasses next year to protect my sensitive eyes from all the flashlights. I can still see bright stars dancing before my eyes – if it’s not the amazing fireworks that are still on my mind. Sweet dreams!
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Comments
[Sing to the tune of "Have you seen the muffin man...] Have you seen the Bocken goat, the Bocken goat, the Bocken goat? Have you seen the Bocken goat, he's got his own webcaaaaaaaaaam!!!
Dom and El
29 November
It’s the night before the grand opening ceremony. It all starts at 4 PM Central European time. Have to admit that I’m a bit nervous. Last year some 12 000 people came to the Castle Square in Gavle to welcome me. Time to comb one’s fur, dear friends… What if they don’t like me anymore? Gosh! You can watch the opening ceremony via the webcams or the film that I will publish on Monday. Please support me now! So many people have taken photos of me today. At least a few supporters left then… It’s so great to see you all again. Hugs from me!
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Comments
Looking forward to the opening ceremony on the webcam. I can see action already, around your feet so you must be getting ready for your big moment!
Julia
Oh, my dear Gavle Goat, don't worry. You will be a great hit. I just wish I could be among all the thousands who will be there to greet you. But you can be sure that I will be at my computer at 10 in the morning (US time) watching all the fun. I have watched today all the people who came to see you and take your picture. Hugs to you!!
Vivian Olcott
Burn it down, hard!
Ebbe
28 November
Starting to recognize me know? Had some problems with my horns earlier, but they are alright now. I stand 13 meters tall in my stockings! The night was quiet thanks to the brave guards around me. The large number of guards is even more than the king himself requires… Yesterday, the radio host Lotta Bromé, spoke about me on the national radio. She wondered if I really need my own spokes person. But of course I do! I am so hot that the snow is melting in Gävle today. I never do media during off season, which make the pressure enormous when I finally show up!
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Comments
Thank you for coming back to see us all, and on my birthday! Your return is the best present ever! I have a small julbocken here with me in USA to help watch the webcams and keep you safe! Merry Christmas, dear Gavle Bocken!!
Cheers, Karna
You are looking so beautiful. This morning (US time) the workers are almost finished and some of the equipment is gone, which makes you look even better. They have done a great job putting you together this year. You are magnificent!
Vivian Olcott
Hooray -- the goat has returned! I heart the Gavle goat. Warm wishes from Florida!
Anna H.
27 November
Finally, it’s time for the appearance of the world famous goat. Me! I will be completed on Friday but you can follow the construction via my webcams!
The Goat Committée has given me at brand new fur this year as well. Ah, it smells fantastic malt whisky as the straw comes from the whisky distillery in Mackmyra here in Gävle. And it’s so nice to retrieve my brilliance. Unfortunalety, the flame retardant chemical that I have used the past two years made me look dirty. No one likes a Christmas Goat that looks like a brown terrier that had been trimmed too much. But now I’m irresistible again with fresh barley straw. I have to admit though, that I don’t feel as fire proof as I used to... But I hope that you will help me to watch out for the arsonists. Merry Christmas friends!
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Comments
Hiya, welcome back Bocken!
Ellen Papenburg Sannes
MMMMMM, whiskey, the water of life, as the Scots say! We have been counting the days since we found your website last year and were thrilled to receive the good news of your return. The new straw sounds wonderful and I'm sure you will be more handsome than ever. We will help keep watch over you. Welcome back!!!! Love from your American fans Yvette and Mark Munson
Welcome back my wonderful Christmas Goat. I will have such fun watching you all the folks in Gavle!
Vivian Olcott
Welcome back, my handsom goat! Merry Christmas from Chicago.
Janet Musich
I can tell you that you have an admirer in Scotland (a good friend of mine) who will surely think your whisky perfume is a great idea, but will be very nervous about your lack of flame retardant. Take good care of yourself - hope you make it through to Knut!
Christopher Webster
welcome back mr. goat from your friends in sunny florida, usa. we enjoy keeping watch over you while eveyone in your place is sleeping. stay safe and warm in your new fur.
the petersons
Welcome back ! I was excited to get your email & the links so I can watch your beautification !!
Barbara Livdahl