The Rollin' Stones: Norway

In early November, I had a fantastic time visiting Andy in Stavanger, Norway. It truly is beautiful, just like the postcards. I did not do or see a ton of things because it was technically tourism off-season. Andy still had to work every day, but was able to come back to the hotel by 4 most days, giving us plenty of time for seeing sights, eating dinner together, etc. I came up with a little site seeing plan every day and would walk to whatever it was I wanted to do. Most everything is right around the water, so most walks were short.

Andy was tired, but happy to be out of Afghanistan for a bit. He was most excited about the food. No meals were blown off during my time there. He said the food is so bad at his base, that he was going to take advantage of every meal time in Norway. We tried all kinds of things and ate some of the best fish we've ever had.

I also want to make sure a HUGE Thank You goes out to Barbara and the Uphueses for watching the kids while I was gone. None of this could have happened without you guys. What a blessing it is to be able to travel without any fear or concerns, knowing the kids were in great hands. Thanks!!

Now, here's a quick tour of Norway:)

Beautiful old Viking era church with thick stone walls, fantastic wood ceiling and art and a pipe organ. I went to look around and take photos one day, then returned later for a music service so I could hear the organ. I was the only one in the audience for that service. I had no idea everyone sat up in the choir loft and sang - not in English. Afterwards, one of the English speaking gentlemen invited me to join them for coffee in the basement. So cool!! It was a little awkward, but I was able to see inside the walls of the church where most tourists do not go.

A Nordic style carving of Jesus is the single support column for the entire pulpit.

The harbor outside my hotel.

Our hotel (not the boat)

Historic fishermen's homes on the harbor.

I took a cruise to see the fjords off the Stavanger coast. We saw old Viking homesteads, Pulpit rock and several waterfalls. A litte chilly, but clear and beautiful.