July 9th-10th- Home and final thoughts

I warn you all.....I havent slept more then 5 hrs and a quick nap as I write this Norway blog.

My last day consisted of showing off last documents, emailing the ladies everything I have worked on, and saying somewhat awkward goodbyes to the men in office.

That night we had an epic salad and grilled out with the neighbors across the street whom I have gotten to know during my time there. It was nice to take a walk after dinner and relax a bit before trying to sleep.

Woke up at 6 ready to get going for the day. After a 30 car ride, 3 flights, layovers, and customs, I got to see my Adam waiting at the gate. Best moment. Ok, cheesy yes, but I don't care.

Final thoughts about travel and Norway:

Can I put a price on an international experience?
Sure you can. Flights, trains, buses, taxi, hotels, food, museums, etc.
But what is the price tag amount of learning a new culture, understanding your OWN culture better, learning a lot about yourself, trying new things, testing your mental and physical strengths, meeting wonderful people, and finding/feeling more accomplished, experienced, and cultured.

I can't stress enough the greatness and beauty of this world. Everyone thinking differently, having a different customs, yet smiles and hugs are universal.

PLEASE, experience the world. Go, See, Do. To those scared of travel: you can do it. The accomplishment you will feel is worth it. Language scares you? Well as native English speakers, we are in luck. It is understood almost everywhere. Plus, learning new words and phrases are fun.

It is said that a picture is worth a 1000 words. Well seeing something in person is worth a billion. The wonder and beauty of this world just amazes me everytime I travel.

Things I wouldn't have experienced without these 6 weeks:
*seen 2 world heritage sights
*climbed a couple mountains
*took a dip in the ocean (freezing)
*corrected documents for the IOC
*wrote an entire comm plan for an intl company
*learned to count to 10 in Norwegian
*Did intl travel alone
*done a ski simulator
*was a part of having a car onto a ferry
*boating on the ocean
*learned 2 cities transit systems
*rode a motorcycle
*drove a motorcycle
*learned to like salmon
*challenged my belief systems

July 7-8th- Hike of all hikes and a good bye dinner

Wednesday: I got up and already knew I was taking at least a half day off. When Anita woke up she suggested we go for a "walk." Ok, so I got the day off work and we set out. This walk.....lasted 4 hrs, was mostly through the Trondheim forest and up a mountain. Like holding onto tress to keep climbing up. It was awesome. For the most part, it was just the two of us in the forest with only the occasional passerby. The top of the mountain is called Geitfjellet (Goat Mountain). Check out the view on my facebook video I posted. We just sat at the top for awhile, eating our packed lunch and soaking in the amazingness of the view. Then it was time to come back down. All in all, our feet hurt, our muscles hated us, one killer blister on my toe, and I was starving.

FYI: A fanny pack is only cool when you are going on the hike of all hikes and need something to hold your water bottle so you dont faint of dehydration. so there.

After dinner it was time to pack, watch a bit of the world cup game (ok, not really....the buzzing drives me crazy!), and chat with Anita and Nils, and Peder.

Thursday: I had to say goodbye to Anita and Nils as they are leaving for a trip to Oslo. We thanked each other and hope to see you again stuff. Very nice.

Work had me finishing all documents, going over the English in some documents, and talking with their web provider to ensure my new website layout happens.

Dinner: After work I moved back to Bente's house as Nils and Anita were leaving on a trip. The official good-byes have started. First Sondre, then Nils and Anita. Around 8 we went to Agon restaurant which is located 74 meters in the air in their radio/tv tower. The restaurant......moves! Designed after the Seattle Needle, the restaurant takes one hour to spin all the way around. Amazing view of the city as well. People present: Bente and Mortin, Martin and Kristin, Lisbeth and her daughter. Really cool experience.

July 5th-6th Chiropractor and Eclipse

So I haven't told many people this, but my right shoulder has some severe pain going on. I tried not to show it, but eventually the ladies at work noticed my shoulder. I at first thought I had slept wrong or something and it would go away, but the pain only got worse. So I gave in and let them make me an appt. The chiropractor, Sonja, will forever in my head be called "Helga." Think of every stereotypical Scandinavian woman you know. She wrote on my back with pen and then said "I fix you now." That was right before she elbowed me very hard in the shoulder. I couldn't breathe the pain was so bad. I did get the shoulder adjusted.... and it hurt worse. The next morning it felt a bit better, but I can't wait to see my own chiropractor.

Anyway, that was a cultural experience to say the least.....and 500kr!!! Gross

Tuesday I set out for downtown to do a bit of last shopping. Bought stuff for my girls and family(s). Then Bente picked me up and we went grocery shopping for lunch. Lunch at the office (i kinda have already described this) is that someone is in charge for the week. The person buys the lunch food, hard boils eggs, and sets the table. So we bought all the food we normally eat, and got the food ready. All of us sit down together for lunch. I think this concept should be brought to America. We would eat healthier and be less stressed.

After work it was back home to make pancakes for dinner. "Egg" pancakes as they are called in my house- "Dutch" pancakes as they are called at Adam's house. Amazing. Then Peder and I left for Eclipse-- "Yes, I'm a guy here, and no I'M NOT GAY"- he spoke loudly before the movie started. haha. It was good. The book felt more epic to me I think.

Today is Wednesday.....3 days from home!

Money! the Norwegian Kroner

The norwegian kroner is the country's currency and the money I currently have in my purse.

The exchange rate is currently $1 US = 6.4 N kr. I have to take the kr price and divide by 6 to get an approximate amount of the product.

Lots of coins! As you can see in the picture there is (left to right):
.5 kr, 1 kr, 5 kr, 10 kr, and 20 kr
The bills go up to 1000 but I didnt have that bill at the time.

Everything here is sooooo expensive compared to US. Compared to anywhere actually. Even Norwegians think so. They are taxed so heavily as well. Clothing at certain stores can be around the same prices (except for jackets!) and fees to get into museums/etc are around my average thought of a tourist price. But, prices on the same items can vary greatly so you need to be aware of the best place to buy your chosen item.

Example: Go Morgan----my absolute favorite food in Norway. Its a yogurt with granola or cereal you dump in. At the grocery store it averages 10 kr ($1.5). At a convenience store: 15-20 kr ($2-3.5). Now that I know this information I only buy this at the grocery store.

July 3rd-4th- 4th of July weekend: Norway style

Saturday- woke up late (well they did) and had a brunch around noon. Then it was completely a typical day....because it was warm and sunny (summer!) we washed their 2 cars, inside and out. Peder had a bit too much fun with the sprayer. Then I just suggested that I wanted a ride on Peder's scooter (big enough to be called a motorcycle) and off we went. Holy cow....sorry Mom! I never got that experience when I was younger, so it had to be done. SO MUCH FUN....AND SOMETIMES SCARY. Then yep, I had to try driving it. I didnt want to, they all made me. I probably only went like 20 ft. but that was enough. Then we went to Neils family summer cottage. The whole family was there. We had coffee and chatted. The little kids are too cute! They all love Neils and he had 5 little kids on top of him at one point. Back for grocery shopping (for the 4th!) and then Peder and I made a couple pizzas and watched New Moon. Yep, thats right: a guy's guy can watch Twilight and not die. We are planning on going to Eclipse so he needed to watch New Moon first.

After the movie--- A night I will never forget. I dont know how to describe this night....nor should I online. Here are a few words..... A bar/disco with old school music (BSB!), dancing, a boat (well two boats), a Russian, a drunk skipper, a walk through town, and a taxi with Pedere's parents also just leaving their party for the night. All home around 3:45. After more pizza, and crash.

Sunday (4th of July)- After all our late night, it was a late start. Ok first off, I have inherited an amazing family here in Trondheim. They wanted me to have my 4th of July so they asked what I usually did and they helped me to recreate it (minus fireworks...totally illegal). Around 1 we all left for Munkholmen (the island in the fjord which over the last 1000 years had been a monastery, a prison, and in WWII was occupied by Germans). It was wonderful to walk around, put feet in the water, go a ferry to get there (my boating for the 4th), and play around with everyone. Took a tour of the fortress and in dome structure there was the best singing area. So Mortin told me to sing something. I whipped out the National Anthem! Great for the 4th right? Mortin hummed the harmony. So much fun.

Grilling! Time for more burgers! I made sooooooooo many patties! I recruited Sondre to help so now he has the skills required to pass on the tradition. Kristin put out the Norwegian flag for me ("same colors") and we had a great dinner. Wii time afterwards...watching Kristin box is probably one of the cutest things ever. She did better than Peder I think. I got to try on Bente's bunad (Norwegian national costumes) They are chosen by family location, name, etc. So by looking at them you can tell something about the person. So much fun to try that on. They wear bunads for May 17th, their national holiday.

Great final weekend here!

July 2nd- Great meeting and Getting homesick

Meeting day! I got to work and did some final details. By the way.. it was the first actually summer feeling day. So we had the meeting outside. My left arm got burnt. You should see me.....completely white from lack of sun and one red (splotchy) arm. Ok my meeting: AWESOME. I really feel like 4 years of college and internships and jobs and hard work means that I truly knew how to give this company a great new communication and explain it to them in a holistic unifying way. They understood me, knew why I suggested each task, overall wonderful. College does make you smart. No joke. And now I have tasks and goals for my last week there with them.

Ok I can say this now that I'm a week from coming home: I miss America, my family, my boyfriend, food, English speaking, etc. I have been having so much fun, learning so much, and meeting wonderful people. But as Dorothy says "There's no place like home."

Friday night Neils and Anita had some friends of their over for some grilling and socializing. Later Sondre drove me around and showed me a few touristy things I hadnt gotten a chance to see yet. Super nice guy. But of course my camera (mom's camera) would lose its battery power only 3 pictures into my tour. Ohh well, at least I got to see more.

Picture one: its like 11:30 at night and we decided to drive around. It was starting to rain, that is why it was dark....not because it was 11:30 at night. haha. This is a harbor shot from a really cool old bridge.

Picture two: Sondre demonstrating the machine where you load your bike, pay some money, and it can take you and your bike up a really steep hill.

June 30th and July 1st- work work and party

So Wednesday and Thursday have me preparing for Friday's big meeting to go over my Communication Plan for Sim Optima with the group. But after a long days work, you have to relax a bit right?

Wednesday, Sondre and I rented a movie (Alice in Wonderland: 2d not 3D) and made cupcakes. Then we all sat down (Anita, Neils, Sondre, and me) for the movie. Good movie...would have been cooler in 3D I think. Anyway it was a relaxing chill night.

Thursday morning....locked myself in the bathroom, again. I swear the locks/key system they have in Norway is American proof. The whole time I have been here I seemed to get locked in the bathroom with each and every lock at least once. Luckily Neils helped me out. Long day at work. But afterward....office party. We stayed at the office and had snacks and drinks (yep alcohol, at work) and chatted before Bente led us all in an activity. The activity was The Marshmallow Challenge. If you want to learn what we did, go to marshmallowchallenge.com All I say it is a challenge you are supposed to fail. The two companies used it as a way to access and learn why they need to work together. One had the technology, the other has the way of teaching others how to use it. Then a maxi taxi picked us all up and drove us to Tulla Fisher. Yep, same restaurant as the last company meal. The chef is Lisbeth's son. Some of the same tappas as last time, others new. I liked the ousters this time. Really good sauce and spices, etc. The guys with a few drinks....it got so loud last night! Hopefully I was able to keep up with them most of the time.

Bente and I both left our phones at work, really smart we are. So the lack of communication was a challenge for the both of us.

Ok this afternoon (like 6 am your time)I give my presentation I have been working on for weeks. Things to be discussed: their new communication plan (written by me), template and structure for their case studies, thoughts about website layouts and content, and tape their new video "about us" section. Here I go!

June 28th-29th- Spa night and a movie

Monday, Anita had heard of a great deal downtown about the fancy hotel's spa was celebrating its one year anniversary and for only 100KR we could experience the spa. So after work, Bente and I picked up Kristin and Anita and headed for the spa.

So beautiful the colors and music, smells and overall design. There were cold tubs, regular tubs, warm (not hot) tubs. The warm one had a dome ceiling with "stars" to look at. There were 3 different kinds of saunas. One had smells, one was classic "Nordic" (way too HOT!), and the last was a mist sprayed in the room that smelt like Vicks Vapor Rub. Essentially, it was a room to clear sinuses. We all got the giggles in that one because we couldn't see each other anymore.

The Meditation Room: padded floors (like gymnastics) and then hanging from the ceiling was 5 cocoon beds. Seriously, it was like we were caterpillars and just hung all scrunched up with tropical music playing in the background. Every time I opened my eyes, Kristin was doing something silly.

At 9, spas are not to relax but to play! She had a blast I think. There were foot baths and they were perfect "Kristin sized" pools. haha.

Great girl night.

Tuesday after work I decided to go for a walk because the weather was actually summerish! (not close to a Midwest summer, but great for them!) Anita told me there was a great lake to walk around nearby. 1.5 hours later I was tired and a little sweaty. It was a great lake though. When I got home Peder asked if I wanted to go to a movie. Yeah! I haven't watched a movie since I got here! Wait, haven't watched a movie in English since I got here. We decided on A-Team. Couldn't get much more American then that movie (which I kinda needed). We loved it. So funny! Great action. Whole thing great. I haven't laughed that hard in a while. Good movie, go see it.

June 25th-27th- Weekend on the coast

Longest blog ever guys, sorry. Don't read if you dont want to. I even know to not write too much....but I want to this time.

Friday: left around 5. Short trip to the ferry boat. We got to the ferry site and everyone else seemed to have the same idea as we did. The line to the ferry was long. When a ferry comes every 20 mins we still had to wait over an hour. On the ferry I tried traditional "ferry food" - svele. Really yummy. After the ferry came a little over an hour drive on the island of Lysoa.

Their place is fantastic. The ocean is only about 100 feet away from the house. The place is what we think of Norway: the wood, the rosemaling, the old style beds. I loved it. That night we waited for Bente's best friend Ingeborg and her family (Leidulf, Ingrid, and Lars) to arrive while making dinner. One late dinner and chatting later it was after one. I had no clue with the sun never setting!

Saturday morning: time to meet my maker- the freezing ocean water. I promised to "jump" in the water with the others. After breakfast, Martin, Bente, Ingeborg, and me suited up and the whole crew was there to hear and see our reactions. Sioux Falls Ploar Plunge has nothing on this. The air temp was only 10 C (50 F) and the water only 8 C (46F) but it felt like my inner organs were freezing. We went in up to our necks and back twice!!! Hot shower wasn't enough for my shaking legs.

Saturday afternoon we went out on the boat. George Lake has nothing on the Atlantic. The waves, the fjords= amazing. We docked the boat and went grocery shopping for the evening meal. Afterward we boated back over to the mainland and docked at the farm of Ingeborg's friend. We were served carrot cake and coffee. Then we visited the cow farm that they and 2 other families run. I have seen my cow farms before, so nothing too new for me there. Their "large" cow farm run by 3 families is about the same amount of cows for one cow farm family at home. Back to the boat and to the cottage for grilling! I was recruited to make "American hamburgers" again and enjoyed doing that. I swear these people don't know a good hamburger! All you have to do is make the patties yourself. They think hamburgers come from frozen patties: no no I say. Fried onions of mine were a hit as well. We had potatoes, salad, pork, and fruit. We thought for sure we would have enough food for two meals: WE ATE ALL OF IT. We even ate a whole bag of marshmallows (roasted of course) for dessert. After dinner was a game of Gin Rummy, lots of wine (ohh boy), and music.

Sunday morning late fried egg and bacon sandwich breakfast. I guess this is a truly typical Sunday breakfast. Off for a new adventure. I can not put into adequate paragraphs, sentences, or words the beauty and magical feelings of Adsen. We docked and set off for the top of the island where a lighthouse is located. The view reminds me of the tourist magazines- perfect shots. The fjords, skaer (tiny islands), and ocean sounds. We then set off to visit the other side of the island....I rock hiked people. The island is a giant rock essentially covered in thick grasses, wildflowers, and moss. I felt like the end of the Sound of Music where they climb over the Alps. Great feeling. The other side of the island somehow (i have no idea how) had an even better view. The others just laid down and began to chat. I went to sit by myself and enjoy my private view and sounds of the ocean, contemplate the vastness of the world and God's wonderful gift of nature the human population clearly doesn't deserve a majority of the time. This was the perfect Norwegian moment I was looking/hoping/praying to have while here. I can go home in peace after that island experience. Great people to share the experience with as well. Picture one shows the island: the lighthouse we climbed to, the fjords, the bottom of the island. Picture two is Bente and me!

After getting back from the island it was time to close up the cottage. Process pretty much like closing our cabin for the weekend. The way home was a bit different. We decided to take a smaller ferry located on the other side of the island. The ride was prettier- the fjords, the villages.

Great weekend, wish the temperature was a bit warmer but still overall wonderful! :)

Things I learned: I'm old (told by two 13 and a 15 year old.) Seriously, at 22?
There are public boat docking spots
The Jack, Queen, and King in a deck of cards has different
letters in the corners
There are many fjords with only one structure on them
(who wants to live all alone?)

Thought about yesterday

So I went to city center because the town was having a market. (Like Old Fashion Fall Festival or the Sioux Falls 'whatever') I was hoping for full on Norwegian goodness in every booth. What was the most popular stuff there?: gross, tacky, American stuff. I mean the stuff Americans wont even wear. There are baseball hats with the Ford logo or $ signs. Ick. T-shirts with our celebrities on them and those rapper necklaces with a symbol for something. I didnt manage to find booths selling Norwegian crafts and foods as well. I bought a pack of potato lesfa....super excited to eat that.

Anyway I am leaving for Bente's family summer cottage....which is on an island....in the Atlantic Ocean. How AWESOME is that?!?!? I will be without internet all weekend so I will tell you all about this adventure late Sunday or Monday. Have a great weekend everyone!

June 23rd- The Midnight Sun: a Norwegian summer!

So the sun never really sets. Or at least its never really dark. Here is some facts and personal experiences with this event.

Wikipedia (amazing tool):
The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon occurring in summer months at latitudes north and nearby to the south of the Arctic Circle, and south and nearby to the north of the Antarctic Circle where the sun remains visible at the local midnight. Given fair weather, the sun is visible for a continuous 24 hours, mostly north of the Arctic Circle and south of the Antarctic Circle. The number of days per year with potential midnight sun increases the farther poleward one goes.

So when my mom and I got to Bergen we had great weather. Due to that, even in southern Norway had light nights. In Oslo, the nights overall had less light but still very different from a Midwest summer night. In Trondheim, even though it rains quite often here, the nights require extra help to sleep.

Tips for sleeping with the lights on- buy a good eye mask. I'm so glad Mom thought to pack 2! No matter the amount of light, its all darkness for me to sleep! Also diffusing the light can be attempted, but masks work best.

Yesterday was the summer solstice. I woke up at 2:30 am on the 23rd and it could have been 3 in the afternoon it was so bright. PEOPLE: I WORE SUNGLASSES YESTERDAY. The sun was out, no clouds, warm (ok, like in the 60s, but still). It was awesome. After work I lounged in the backyard. You know when you havent seen the sun in a while and you start to feel depressed? Well yesterday I got my medicine and feel all better.

Anita got home from work and we picked up Kristin and headed to Neils mother's summer cottage. On the fjord (picture) and had a picnic. I had read that people really celebrate the summer solstice, but they told me this is just for the good weather. Bonfire, beautiful sights, grilled food, and NO BUGS. They just dont get bugs close to the water like we do. In the forests, yes, but not by the water. Nils met us there for dinner and a bunch of his family was there.

Cutest part of the night: I taught 3 little boys (2-4 yrs old) how to roast marshmallows. They couldnt understand my words so I was just demonstrating. One of their moms came over and started translating for me. Great night. Awesome to relax in warmth by the water, have a bonfire, and try new foods again.

The second picture was taken by me from my bedroom at 11:56....yes people no setting sun.

June 22nd- A big meeting and new housing

So the day started out with my big 2 hour meeting. I presented my thoughts on their current website, asked them questions regarding thought processes on certain things and presented guidance and reasons for a new layout and image structure for Sim Optima. I also taught them about the various social medias (youtube, twitter, company blogging) and how and why to use each. I explained that each are going to have their own goals and objectives for their use. Can I just say, I thought Petter (70 years old) was just off in his own world while I was talking about Twitter. Turns out he said later that he hadnt learned so much in 2 hours for a very long time. I also showed the company my ideas for their future image and packaging their products. Really good, productive meeting. Lots of positive feedback. :)

After lunch had a few new things to research and think about for them before we left to bring Ellen to the bus stop. When I got home I had to pack. Holy cow you stay at a place for over a week and you totally have to re-pack EVERYTHING. Ahh....Around 9 we left for Bente's niece Anita's house. (Anita and Bente are only 8 years apart) Anita and Neils got out treats and coffee for us to get to know each other. Their house is beautiful, Anita is a great decorator. The view....I will get pictures by tomorrow. Indescribable. My room is nice, little more girly then the soccer posters and stuffed animals. ;) Their boys came home later. Close to the same ages as my sister and I. Sondre is 22 and home for the summer. Peder just turned 19 and just out of high school. Both are very nice, respectful, mature guys. Sondre is studying law at the University in Lillehammer. Anita has a closet full of shoes.....Paris runway sort of shoes. I get giddy just looking at them. I hope they are in my size!

June 21- A misadventure? followed by nice dinner

Interesting day. Ellen, Bente, and I got up to meet Petter (the leader of the Lillehammer games who I met in Jan 08 in Lillehammer) who was one of the founding members of Sim Optima. He remembered our class this 2.5 years later! Nice older guy.

They had a meeting and I did final prep for my presentation. That afternoon I left early to go meet up with a neighbor of Bente's who invited me to this picture taking type club. Can I just say....GO ME. I try everything people bring up for me to try, to eat, activities, etc. Ok, back to the topic. Luckily this lady started talking to me at the bus stop that this bus stop is on summer hours now and not in service. She got me to the right bus station. After meeting Jonathon (the neighbor boy) downtown we met up with this group.

Ok weird. First off, these people only knew each other online and were meeting for the first time. Second, in the 2 or so hours I spent with them I was a model, held reflectors, and overall felt like not-a-norwegian-youth. This one guy kept trying to touch me-creeper! And the other 3 people were all just a bit off you know? Anyway I did get some good pictures and left them to do a project I have been waiting for decent weather to do. Bente later asked if I regretted accepting his offer to tag along: I dont think so. I always appreciate new experiences, but this one could have been better.

The doors in Trondheim are world famous. They are all over 200 years old and have varying bright colors and designs on them. I had to start getting pictures of them. They are just amazing. There are certain streets I didnt have time to walk down, so this project of mine will continue. Serious- google Trondheim doors look at images

So at 7 I was to meet up with the Sim Optima group for a nice dinner. Great conversations, great tappas (lots of little courses for us to try new things), great people. I tried EVERYTHING- including anchovies, Italian spicy sausage, chicken cooked in rosemary with paprika and sweet onion (my favorite dish), tomatoes with special stuff, oysters, lots of weird tasting cheese, and hard liquor ice cream for dessert. My.... after 2 huge glasses on wine and then liquor ice cream.....Ill just leave it at that.

June 19-20th - I love weekends

Saturday was shopping day. Side note: pouring all day. all day. Rain, Rain, go away, come again....later. SO sick of RAIN. We all got up slowly and ate slowly. I love that. Then Mortin, Bente, and I did errands all over the city. Favorite experience from shopping day: IKEA...totally fell in love. I'm moving into a new apartment in August so that is all I was thinking about. Also went grocery shopping because they are having a dinner party on Sunday. Then Bente and Mortin were off to another bday party so and I ended up having the house to myself a bit. I watched the Crown Princess of Sweden get married (live) and the whole royal wedding thing is fun. All the ballgowns, crowns and tiaras, the bows and hoopla. When Messay came back he fried some chicken and rice for the two of us. When Kristin came home from her bday party we all had ice cream.

In Norway, you throw yourself birthday parties. So the past two nights, Bente and Mortin has had friends throwing themselves a huge 50th birthday party. The guests are supposed to say speeches or sing songs to the birthday person. The one with the birthday chooses the location, style of dress, and even who will sit where. Interesting.

Sunday again slow to get up. Breakfast and getting ready for the dinner party. Cleaning and organizing. We all helped. Bente taught me how to make Norwegian waffle mix. I love them! Fun to learn a secret recipe. I really must find a Norwegian waffle maker in the states.

So dinner party:
Norwegian family
1 American (thats me)
1 Canadian
1 Swiss
1 Ethiopian

Yep thats 5 very distinct, and different cultures and thought processes together in one room. I don't think I will ever forget that experience. We had lamb and couscous (both of which I dont think I have had before) and for dessert, the waffles. So yummy all of it. In terms of conversation, I will never forget parts of it. I was explained the Euro thought process of the Nobel Peace prize. Obama winning to the general American public seemed too early, he hadnt done anything yet. Bente explained to me that she knows how Americans think having lived and studied there. She explained that we prove ourselves by our actions. We are rewarded not by what we say, but what we do. Europeans are so dependent on America that because of the HOPE he provided it was enough to earn the prize. Just the words are good enough for Europeans and now they hold him to their prize. Interesting to look at it from another perspective. The Canadian seemed to think that we were completely different as people. I laughed at that. We looked and, for the most part, sounded alike. We also fought the most.

After dinner we picked up Ellen from the ferry and chatted before going to bed.

June 17th-18th America and Strategic Planning

At lunch on Thursday, the one conversation I knew I would have eventually but dreaded happened: American politics. I hate politics. Then as an American I always have this need to explain....I don't know why we do some things we do. One thing I learned: we just think differently. I left early (ready for this next presentation as I'm ever going to be) and came home to a dog and cat quite eager to see me. Troya just wants attention and love and Ambo just begs for food all the time. I have been here a week and they already expect so much from me! haha.

Bente came home from London!! We went to the store because I was making dinner: American style burgers (or at least Lussenden style). I mixed the meat, fried onions, and everyone loved them! "This is the best part of America"- Martin (age 13) haha

After dinner before cleaning up I told them about lunch, and then started the topic again. Now however, both have lived in the US. So they have a greater understanding of how we think. Bente spent a year of high school in US and took US history so she really understood. Interesting discussion into how we each think- and how we are programmed to think.

Friday Bente and I were at the office and I finished up a little side project while she was in a meeting. Then we left to pick up Messay a new Ethiopian immigrant to Norway. They met through a mutual friend: their kids are from Ethiopia so it made since for them to meet. He is 29, super nice, and knows 3 languages and learning Norwegian. Came back to the office and I got to show Bente what I have been working on for them: their new social media strategy and thoughts on their website, image, and future growth. She liked it alot! We are preparing for a communication strategy meeting that is Monday and Tuesday.

Came home early...Bente and Mortin have a friend's bday party to go to, so we are going to make homemade pizza for dinner. Messay had never made homemade pizza before and was really excited to learn. So we made bbq chicken pizza, really good! Then we went for a walk, followed by a great skype, and relaxation. Looking forward to a great weekend!

Things I have noticed

Ok the picture: This was the street the Oslo office was located on--any other Harry Potter geeks notice the Tom Riddle/Voldemort tie together! haha I'm a totally HP freak.


Only been here 2.5 weeks but here are some things I have noticed about the land of Norsk.

Fashion trend: females are all wearing a white to off-white shirt with navy horizontal strips. Ellen thinks that will never go out of style. Norway is so connected to their navy heritage. I have a shirt like this, I should have brought it!

Burger King: not only are the prices at least 3X then America, but the places have two floors! Laura, Eva, and I sat on the 2nd floor where the kids play place was along with lots of tables.

Toilet seats: they are skinnier then American ones. I have finally gotten used to that feeling. Before I always thought I was going to fall in! haha.

Religion: Not important to most Norwegians because (I have asked) the government runs the church. There is no personal relationship, no community feeling of a church family. The feeling they get when they go to church is more governmental, if that makes sense. I find that so sad.

Amount of food: I swear I eat a third of the calories I eat in the US on a given day. I haven't been "full" since I got here. I get hungry almost every two hours! Sometimes I buy an ice cream or chocolate bar just for more calories. They eat so healthy! Going grocery shopping: all produce, dairy, and grains. I doubt anything was processed. Update: I'm getting used to not eating as much. Not as hungry as often anymore which is nice. I still sometimes go buy something fun though!

Steps into/out of rooms: To get into any room in a house or business you have to step into the room and step out of the room. Very annoying. I'm finally not stubbing my toes anymore!

Nature lovers: Norwegians culture is to be in nature as much as possible. The kids are walking on their own or riding a bike at a very young age. You are never the only one on a walk in the forest or streets. Weekend activities for the communities are set up to get the family active and outdoors. They exercise (outside) at least once a day with some activity. To get home from work, some change into exercise gear and run/ride home.

June 13-14th Futbal mania and the great bike ride

Sunday was a pretty lazy day. Love them. Got up slowly, ate late. Bente was off for her trip and Mortin drove me around town showing me how I was to get to and from work. Also saw the town's cathedral (main touristy thing) and learned the history of the city. Sunday afternoon I just watched some American tv on the internet. Nice to hear English for a bit! Then Martin was off to his soccer game and we went to watch Kristin's game. Seriously I feel like a soccer aunt? guest? big sister? I watched Martin's game on Saturday and Sunday I watched Kristin's. I have never watched a whole soccer game in my life so this is all interesting. Can I just say the world here is Futbal crazy!!! World cup being watched and talked about all the time, posters on the walls, etc. Ohh and one interesting difference. The kids teams are through area athletic clubs, not associated with schools.

Monday morning meant a bike ride to work. All the way down a mountain. And it was only like 40 F yesterday morning. I was so cold. The bike killed my favorite pair of jeans. Holes right through them. I have decided the nickname Mortin has given me fits: "prairie girl" I am so not used to these hills!

Got to the office in one piece and noticed--all men. Other than Lisbeth, Bente (who wasnt here), and me all men! I got my assignments for the week and got to work. Lunch time: I wish I could have taped this experience. The team takes turns on who is in charge of lunch. So there is food covering this table and everyone just digs in. The men just throw the cheese and meat across the room to pass the food! Craziness.

The reason I rode the bike at all to get to work was that Lisbeth wanted to take me around the area and introduce me to her family. "Its only a 8K" THAT IS LIKE 5 MILES! All uphill. So anyway not only I'm I used to any kind of hills, this mountain did my asthma in. So needless to say, I'm glad I dont have to ride bike anytime soon. Lisbeth's family was very nice and we had dinner together. One of her daughters was throwing a surprise party for her dad because he coached her soccer team. The daughter Marin, made up the best reason ever to get him to come down for the surprise. It's so good I'm not telling in case I want to throw a surprise party someday.

Picture 1- Kristin and Martin being silly
Picture 2- Ellen and me, I stayed with her in Oslo

June 11-12th- Onto Trondheim!

Friday morning I got up slowly and finished packing. Then I went into the office and did one last look over my presentation and ideas. Then I gave the presentation, and everything went really well. They liked my ideas and how they can customize the presentation per client. Then it was back to Ellen's to grab my stuff for my flight.

Bente couldn't make it so I made the journey on my own. One 50 min bus ride, followed by a 50 min flight, followed by another 30 minute bus ride and I was there. Bente and her son Martin picked me up at the bus station and we went and grabbed the pizza they ordered for dinner. The city center is so cute. I love the wooden colorful buildings and and view of the fjord.

Right away I felt completely welcome by the family and their house is so nice. It has wood covering the walls, like some of the cabins around my lake back home. Martin is kind enough to lend me his room so I have my own room and bathroom.

Family: Morten and Bente and their two kids, Martin (13) and Kristin (9, "almost 10")

After pizza Bente and I took their dog, Troya (not sure on spelling) for a walk around a lake their house is near. The view of the lake and forest is just amazing. Next time I must bring my camera. After the walk the family was just hanging out and I taught Martin a card game and he taught me the Norwegian numbers 1-10.

Saturday morning I woke around 8. Geez sleeping in is never going to be my thing. After a cup of coffee, Bente and I took Troya for another walk. A longer walk. Holy cow I'm still out of shape walk. People: I jogged. No joke. Bit for a bit but still. I know....I'm still shocked. The view again was just amazing and I'm not allowed to leave the house without a camera. Ok funniest thing I have ever seen. Sheep. All over. In the summer, their owners let them out. They roam on their own. Their were families of sheep out for strolls on the public paths like the rest of us! Too funny. Bente says they just go back home in the fall. Amazing. Troya is bred to be a herder so she was really excited the few times we saw the sheep on the paths.

Errands came after breakfast. Looking for new chairs, curtains, few cloths for Kristin. We also saw Bente's office where I will be working and went to half of Martin's soccer game. Great to experience a town from that angle. Through all that I got a transportation pass, a map of the city for when I inevitably get lost, and some more cash. Productive day!

We then had to get ready for Mortin's concert! He is in a choir group that was having their 10 year anniversary and had a special concert with costumes, acting, little dancing. We all got dressed up (felt good to curl my hair again) and left for the concert. It was so fun! Such animated faces! They had a soloist on My Funny Valentine and ohh man she was fantastic. Such emotion.

After the concert was the choir party which Bente and I got to attend. That is another great way to experience a country. haha It was fun and everyone was so happy their concert went well. Great food and drinks!

June 10th- Work and botanical garden

Today started with a meeting with Hanna at 8 followed by working solidly on my presentation until 2:30. I just set up a place to work, put in the headphones, and go go go! I knew I wanted to see the botanical gardens before I left town so I'm glad I finished the presentation in time for me to get back to Ellen's, get my stuff together and go. A tried taking the "short way" ended up getting lost a bit, but eventually made it there no problem. I should learn to just take the way I KNOW to go! haha.

Its beautiful! I felt a little silly walking around by myself so I took a friend along- Pounder. Pounder was a perfect gift given to me before I left. The pictures are my creative way of taking pictures without me being in them. As least I think they are cute. They had so many kinds of plants. They had a tropical greenhouses, rock gardens, scent walk, for those who may not be able to see, but smell. Amazing colors, sizes, variety. So peaceful. I think I would have enjoyed it more had I been walking with someone just to chat with and comment together on the plants. But Pounder and I still had a good time. :)

I made us dinner of pasta and meat sauce. The hamburger is a little different here. In texture or something. Still good, just something is a little different.

Tonight is prepping for the presentation tomorrow, and packing. I fly to Trondheim tomorrow!! This will be a brand new city, experiences, etc. Super excited to see the city, experience the Midnight Sun, and learn about 2 new families! Ohh yeah, new jobs to do too!

My walk today

In Norway, breaks mean go take a long walk in the fresh air. I had two today

My first was to go back to the cell phone place and of course the second I got there everything magically worked. Of course.

Second walk: Decided to try a new part of town. Remember Sim Optima's location? Well I'm surrounded by the "rich" part of town. The exteriors of buildings are just incredible (of course I forgot my camera) and the shops hold the most beautiful, astronomically prized clothing and accessories. Fun to look anyway. Then I got to all the Embassys. I have been to the US embassy on my last trip here. The rest look NOTHING like ours. Ours is a black fortress close to the royal palace. It screams "don't come it, dont even look at us." Well, it also feels super safe once inside.

Walking down a nice neighborhood, I find that China is neighbors to Italy who is neighbors with Korea. Chile's across the street. These mansions are fun and gorgeous with lots of character. I saw some Chinese diplomat talking on the phone in the front yard.

Folk costumes: The lady described the use of folk clothing unlike any other country. Their was a few centuries in which Norway was extremely aware of how they dressed. The embroidery meant something, how to wear the pieces, which pieces of accessories to wear, etc. Today the costumers find a time and place to wear them. Baptizing, confirmations, weddings, but mostly May 17th (their Independence Day). Ellen has a picture of her niece in the room I'm in from her confirmation in the traditional dress. You can come into this shop and pick the fabrics, the ribbon, the thread, etc. The ladies will measure and custom fit the dress. Sometimes people bring in a old pillow or something with a nice embroidery and they are able to use the pattern into the newer dress. Isn't it fascinating!?

Nothing too exciting with work stuff today. But after work Ellen took me to a resturant by the Castle (Fortress) and met her networking group. Nice ladies. Tomorrow is a big work day (I get to play a bit as well) so I had better get ready!

The pictures: The royal palaces ponds have sooo many ducks. Mallards are my dad's favorite. This pics for you dad! The second is a picture of the office I work at this week.

Let me know if there is anything you want to know about my trip, Norway, etc. I'm totally open. I have lots of free time to answer questions!