While this was whirlwind of a trip, I did have 10 scavenger hunt items to accomplish in 6 days. Let's see how I did:
1. See the Northern Lights and try to capture them with my camera. I've been practicing taking night shots so we'll see!
I was able to see the Northern Lights on my first night in Tromso when I went dog sledding and get a couple of photos of them which I was super excited about. I did see the lights the following night on the cruise although they were hidden in clouds. I couldn't get good photos of them because I was on a moving vessel. Still, I saw them!
2. See the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam. I have another layover in Amsterdam like last trip so instead of a canal cruise of the city, I hope to gain more insight into her story and see more of the city, minus the Red Light District. :)
With a bit of an initial setback due to missing my train stop, I was able to go to the Anne Frank House and see a bit of the city. Their story and the history I was able to touch touched me deeply. I have a fondness for Amsterdam and hope someday to spend more time exploring the city and the Netherlands.
3. Ride and possibly drive a dog sled.
I was able to ride in a dog sled and with that experience ALL that comes with the excursion, even the bits they don't tell you about. I wouldn't mind trying it again but this time as a musher/ driver.
4. Stand at the tip of the tippy top of Europe, the North Cape.
I was able to stand at the edge of the world, well almost since it's the edge of Europe and with that experience the cold beauty that surrounds this famous point.
5. Snowmobile on a frozen fjord. It'll be my first time snowmobiling so I'm excited!
This was one of my highlights. I not only was able to snowmobile on a frozen fjord but I did it at 75 mph! I definitely want to do this again.
6. Try some of the native dishes and their orange soda.
I tried their orange soda called "Sol" and a well known chocolate called "Smil" which looks like "Rolos" with a soft, caramel/ toffee filing. I also got to try lots of fish, served almost at every meal; Norwegian waffles; the Norwegian equivalent of a hot dog which was a Reindeer sausage wrapped in a tortilla-like bread made out of potatoes called "lefsa"; a traditional Sami meal with reindeer meat, veggies and potatoes; and Norwegian brown cheese.
7. Listen for a Norwegian saying the expression, "Uffda." It's like saying "I'm sorry" or "Darn it." It's mainly used in the Scandinavian parts of Minnesota but I like the word and want to see if still is in use there since it supposedly came from Norway.
I did listen for this expression and did not hear it to my dismay. I even asked about it and they looked at me funny so I don't think it's used anymore in Norway. I thought I heard a German fellow say it but that could be my wishful hearing. :)
8. Stay in an ice hotel.
This was truly a cool experience (pun intended)! Having a hotel background, I've been interested in unique hotels and the ice hotel had captured my fascination for some time. There are a handful around the world, mainly in Europe so I'm thankful I was able to experience it. It's truly amazing to sleep under a meter of snow and be somewhat warm!
9. Experience God in other cultures.
While God did not specifically come up in conversation, He was there in all that I saw. What stood out to me on this trip was God's attention to detail in His creation - the uniqueness of every snowflake and the different types of snow flakes - hard and soft, small and large; how the cylindrical design of reindeer hair helps them maintain moisture and stay warm, perfect for their climate; and how bits of solar dust can combine to create such mystical beauty found in the Northern Lights, light not practically needed except to touch the souls of those that witness them. His thoughtful and whimsical creations astounds me and inspires me to mimic those characteristics in what I do.
10. Have Starbucks. I brought my gift card so I'm ready!
While I did bring my gift card, I did not use it. There was a Starbucks in the Amsterdam airport but I did not come across the friendly green mermaid sign in Norway. Apparently there is much discussion about this out on the web. Who knew!
Results: Completed 8 out of 10 = 80% Pretty good!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
When Time Counts
When the full realization hit me that I was sleeping under a large dome of snow in the north of Norway by the Russian border, I admit, slight panic started to set in. But before I knew it, that moment had passed, I had fallen asleep, and now a bright blue light from the hole in the snow ceiling above me glowed, letting me know it was morning and the last day of my Nordic adventure.
Since Norway lost an hour due to their daylights savings, I manually set my clock the night before. I was on a tight schedule with a flight to catch so I couldn’t afford to be late. My alarm went off which I had burrowed by my head inside the sleeping bag to keep warm for fear it might freeze if left to the elements. I proceeded to quickly put on my chilled clothes, grab my sleeping bag and gear and take one last look at my snow room before I headed out towards the warm facilities to use the sauna.
The soft crunch of the snow below my feet was all I heard as I made my way out of the hotel. The morning greeted me with a soft, cool, stillness and I soaked it in with quiet reverie. The odd thing was there was not a soul to be found which was also neat because I got to enjoy the sauna all by myself.
Finally the German lady and her son had joined me in the warm facilities where we waited for the morning to officially begin while we drank tea. It was when an hour had passed and there was no sign of hotel staff or breakfast that I began to be concerned.
I wandered about outside and still no one except barking dogs and sleepy reindeer. I asked the German family what time they had. It was an hour behind what I had. I tried to ask them if that included the daylight savings adjustment but they didn’t quite understand me. I was getting nervous because by this time I only had about 30 minutes before I needed to leave to catch my shuttle to the airport.
Finally, I saw the hotel staff person who was in charge of breakfast. She said she was running a bit late due to daylight savings but when asked the time, she had an hour behind what I had. It turned out time counted and I was wrong! My clock apparently adjusted itself automatically before I manually adjusted it, so instead of being an hour ahead, I was two hours ahead! No wonder I was so tired.
I enjoyed cold cuts, cheese, toast, cereal, and plenty of coffee before we headed over to the reindeer park for the feeding of the reindeer, which we got to help with. They are friendly but shy creatures that will only come to you if they think you have food.
The shuttle from the snow hotel to my transfer point was behind schedule so a taxi was ordered for me. I had approximately 15 minutes to get to the transfer point, get my luggage I had stowed overnight, and get on the airport shuttle bus. Thankfully my taxi driver was fast and got me there with two minutes to spare.
On the shuttle bus, we went through the town of Kirkenes, which has about 6,000 inhabitants and wound around its neighboring villages until we reached the small airport. As I waited for my plane, I stared out across the snowy hills that encompassed the airport, some of them I believe to be part of Russia. It was undetectable to me but apparently the Norwegian dialect in Kirkenes has a Russian influence. This influence I was able to see in the town’s street names. I would have loved to cross the Russian border since I was so close to it and get another stamp in my passport, but a visa was required and I was limited on time.
My flight from Kirkenes brought me to Oslo where my journey ended. Time definitely counted on this adventure with only a week to experience so many wonderful firsts, experiences I’m sure I will be reflecting upon for a lifetime. But as this solo sojourner has learned to say in Norwegian, “Hai da bra,” which in English means, “have it good” or “good bye”… at least until the next scavenger hunt experience reveals itself.
Since Norway lost an hour due to their daylights savings, I manually set my clock the night before. I was on a tight schedule with a flight to catch so I couldn’t afford to be late. My alarm went off which I had burrowed by my head inside the sleeping bag to keep warm for fear it might freeze if left to the elements. I proceeded to quickly put on my chilled clothes, grab my sleeping bag and gear and take one last look at my snow room before I headed out towards the warm facilities to use the sauna.
The soft crunch of the snow below my feet was all I heard as I made my way out of the hotel. The morning greeted me with a soft, cool, stillness and I soaked it in with quiet reverie. The odd thing was there was not a soul to be found which was also neat because I got to enjoy the sauna all by myself.
Finally the German lady and her son had joined me in the warm facilities where we waited for the morning to officially begin while we drank tea. It was when an hour had passed and there was no sign of hotel staff or breakfast that I began to be concerned.
I wandered about outside and still no one except barking dogs and sleepy reindeer. I asked the German family what time they had. It was an hour behind what I had. I tried to ask them if that included the daylight savings adjustment but they didn’t quite understand me. I was getting nervous because by this time I only had about 30 minutes before I needed to leave to catch my shuttle to the airport.
Finally, I saw the hotel staff person who was in charge of breakfast. She said she was running a bit late due to daylight savings but when asked the time, she had an hour behind what I had. It turned out time counted and I was wrong! My clock apparently adjusted itself automatically before I manually adjusted it, so instead of being an hour ahead, I was two hours ahead! No wonder I was so tired.
I enjoyed cold cuts, cheese, toast, cereal, and plenty of coffee before we headed over to the reindeer park for the feeding of the reindeer, which we got to help with. They are friendly but shy creatures that will only come to you if they think you have food.
The shuttle from the snow hotel to my transfer point was behind schedule so a taxi was ordered for me. I had approximately 15 minutes to get to the transfer point, get my luggage I had stowed overnight, and get on the airport shuttle bus. Thankfully my taxi driver was fast and got me there with two minutes to spare.
On the shuttle bus, we went through the town of Kirkenes, which has about 6,000 inhabitants and wound around its neighboring villages until we reached the small airport. As I waited for my plane, I stared out across the snowy hills that encompassed the airport, some of them I believe to be part of Russia. It was undetectable to me but apparently the Norwegian dialect in Kirkenes has a Russian influence. This influence I was able to see in the town’s street names. I would have loved to cross the Russian border since I was so close to it and get another stamp in my passport, but a visa was required and I was limited on time.
My flight from Kirkenes brought me to Oslo where my journey ended. Time definitely counted on this adventure with only a week to experience so many wonderful firsts, experiences I’m sure I will be reflecting upon for a lifetime. But as this solo sojourner has learned to say in Norwegian, “Hai da bra,” which in English means, “have it good” or “good bye”… at least until the next scavenger hunt experience reveals itself.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
The Coolest Experience Ever!
When many of my friends heard about this, they thought I was crazy and I don’t blame them. It is quite out there or up there depending on how you look at it. But nonetheless, they all concur that it is cool.
Today I would be going to the northern town of Kirkenes near the Russian boarder to go on a snowmobile safari on a frozen fjord and then sleep in a snow hotel, a hotel completely made of snow and ice, two things I’ve never done before but have wanted to do for some time. I admit, these two things are what attracted me to go on this adventure besides spying the Northern Lights. They definitely lived up to the cool factor in every sense of the word.
Since this trip has been one of my shortest, I’ve been changing hotels every night, which can be warring on the body and the soul because you don’t have as much time to absorb the surroundings. Being able to spend two nights on the cruise was a treat but at last, it was time to leave.
I checked out of my cabin at 8am and then headed up to breakfast where I met up with Angelika. I discovered she was also going on the snowmobile safari and actually went last year and loved it. There was another type of snowmobile safari she was debating about going on where they drop you off at one port and then you snowmobile through the arctic countryside to the next port. It sounded fun to her but she’s a novice and didn’t want the ship to leave her if she happened to be too slow and not make it back in time.
Angelika, a single woman in her 40’s has been on this cruise 3 times having fallen in love with the scenery. In the past, the cruise company would sit the single passengers together for dinner at a large table, which she appreciated because you get to meet people in a similar situation as you and end up making friends. She wasn’t looking to get married, but just have pleasant conversations.
On this cruise, they didn’t do that and squeezed in the singles wherever there was room, leaving many of them by themselves or with couples which proves to be awkward. At our table for dinner, she was sat with a threesome of friends. When I arrived, it was the most they had talked to Angelika on their entire trip thus far. Being a feisty German woman, she complained to the cruise management about the overall situation. On behalf of the single passengers, I’m glad she did.
I was a bit concerned about the logistics for the day, knowing I would be leaving the cruise but not knowing what to do with my luggage while on the snowmobile safari or how to get to the meeting point for the snow hotel. My directions said to take a taxi but this was a small village and a small port – taxi’s aren’t just parked out front. I got clarification from the ship’s tour director and with luggage in hand, on wheels and on my back; I proceeded to wait with the other tour goers for the ship to dock.
In front of the crowd was a cute British couple in their 80’s. With many languages being spoken where the majority of what’s being said is foreign to me, my ears tend to gravitate to English when heard so I couldn’t help but eavesdrop on their conversation. The little lady was nervously chirping away to her husband, seeming to convince herself that whatever excursion they were about to go on would be fine, even if their friends thought it was crazy or if she thought it was risky. He politely listened and wrapped his arm around her, a comforting gesture most likely practiced throughout their many years of marriage. The doors opened and with arms linked, they cautiously headed down the gangplank, she instructing him on how not to slip, an incident that I could tell was of grave concern for her that would not just put a damper on their trip but their lives.
I found my way to the vans for the snowmobile safari, gave my luggage to the driver to load and hopped in not only to see Angelika but the elderly British couple as well. They were going snowmobiling! I was so excited to see them! She brought her driver’s license just in case she wanted to drive but was hesitant. I told them we would race. ☺ They so inspired me. I hope I continue to be that adventurous and have the ability to do so when I’m their age.
When we arrived at Barents Safari and the fjord, we put on warm suits and helmets and received instructions in safety and how to drive – very easy. I was teamed up with a lady in her 20’s and since we both wanted to drive, decided to take turns.
Being last in line, I gave us some extra space between the snowmobile in front of us so I could get used to driving and play a bit with speed, as much as a slow convoy would allow. We as a group stopped in the middle of the fjord, and got to soak in the beautiful snow-covered banks of the fjord and let it sink in that we were standing on frozen water. Crazy! We learned there were three different landscapes we would encounter that day in Kirkenes – Arctic tundra, a birch tree line, and the Siberian forest. Just a few kilometers away was something that was unique to any part of the world. It was the point where three countries touched – Norway, Finland, and Russia. What makes it unique is that they each have a different time zone, which makes New Year’s fun because they get to celebrate three times!
We got back on our snowmobiles and those who wanted to go faster were instructed to get to the front of the line which we made a beeline for. We were booking it! Faster and faster we went until all of a sudden we started to slow down to a complete stop. The snowmobile died! Other snowmobiles came whizzing and puttering by as we tried to get it to start but nothing. Then there was silence on the fjord and us stranded in the middle of it. Thankfully, the other instructor and the captain of the ship who was also on our tour came to our aid. They tried to get it to start but nothing. We each split up and left the dead snowmobile, she going with the captain and I going with the mildly cheeky instructor who let me drive.
We were off again going faster and faster but the instructor slowed me down, telling me to keep it between 40 – 60 km/hr since we had to be last to make sure no one from the tour was left behind. This meant when I caught up to the ‘putterers’, I had to slow down even more - bummer.
On our second stop, I couldn’t help but stare in awe at the beauty surrounding me. The soft sunlight illuminated the kilometer of frozen water we were standing on, making the tree-lined banks visually pop in contrast. Time seemed to freeze along with the surroundings as my soul tried to savor these moments before we headed back.
A perk about being with the instructor was that I got to drive again but we again needed to be last. On our way back, we stopped at the dead snowmobile so the instructor could try to get it to start but after several attempts, decided to leave it for later.
Since the group was far ahead of us, I could go faster to catch up, still keeping in the 40-60 km/hr range, but when the captain and my former partner whizzed by, the throw down began. The instructor took control from behind, put his hands on mine, squeezed the accelerator, and we were off - 70, 80, 90, 100, 120 km/ hr (approx. 75 mph) we went as I hunkered down and hung on for the ride of my life as trees and snow became a blur. A permanent smile affixed itself on my face partially due to the speed and the adrenaline rush it was creating which only let exclamations of “woo hoo’s” and “yeah’s” escape my lips. It was more than I had hoped for and definitely was the coolest ride of my life.
We caught up to the group and took a break. This time, we headed back first so the instructor could get a fire started in the Lavo for the group. I assumed the passenger seat, got my camera out and was going to take pictures of the scenery. Plans changed as soon as we started when we began to book it. My hands affixed themselves firmly to the side handles as we zoomed through virgin snow; through trees and brush; and down and around hills much like I’ve done on sand in a dune buggy, places my tour mates did not get to go. Having my snowmobile die was a bummer but it was well worth it!
We ended our time together by having tea and dried reindeer meat in a warm lavo where we learned more about the Sami people. Not so long ago, country lines were drawn for this area where a good majority of Sami people live. When given the choice to be part of Norway or Russia, many of them chose to be affiliated with Russia, leaving only 25 Sami families in the Kirkenes area of Norway.
In seeing a picture of the people in the Sami parliament, I was intrigued to discover they are white. When I think of indigenous people, I automatically think of dark skin but their fair skin makes sense due to the area their people come from with there only being sun 6 months of the year. It was a stereotype I have that I became aware of.
We shed our extra layers and boarded the bus. The tour guide graciously dropped me off at the Rica Hotel Kirkenes, the meeting spot for the snow hotel later that evening. When I pulled on the door and discovered it was locked, I thought, “This is not good.” A note was affixed on it saying it was closed for Easter. Slight panic started to set in at the realization that my directions were wrong. I quickly looked back at the tour guide who thankfully hadn’t driven off yet. I walked back, luggage in tow and boarded the van again. He took me to the other hotel, the Rica Hotel Arctic where thankfully there were other snow hotel goers.
With a few hours to kill, I walked around the little town and did it. I fell, big time on my right side. I didn’t even see it coming, which was the problem. I was looking around and not down. The ice finally got me. I tried to play it off but the snow all over my butt and side was a dead giveaway. Thankfully not many people were out and about.
I did see something though that was new to me – a kick sledge that is basically a chair with a basket on skis used for getting around. I saw townspeople using them and played around on one parked outside a grocery store. They’re pretty fun and make sense to use with snow covered streets and sidewalks.
I headed back to the hotel where I relaxed and watched the snow fall in huge, soft, silent flakes before we were picked up for the snow hotel.
There were about 11 of us total bound for the snow hotel – two families, a couple, and I. Twilight was setting in turning the sky a fantastic navy blue, the almost full moon glowing over the dozens of snow mounds and burrows which made up the snow hotel. It reminded me much of what a Hobbit hotel would like in Lord of the Rings if it were covered in snow.
We walked through the meter thick wall of the snow cave entrance to the main reception area where an ice bar, ice chairs covered with reindeer hides, lounges, tables and different sculptures greeted us. There were two halls that housed a total of 20 rooms, each one individually decorated by artists with a different theme. We explored each room and got to choose which one we wanted for the night, a difficult choice. I chose what I call the “Heart Room” which had hearts carved into the snow walls. The reason I chose the room was because of the bed, which was an ice carving in the shape of a boat. It was a boat bed! Lights of different colors illuminated each room adding character to the snow-white canvas. Reindeer hides acted as carpets and ice blocks surrounded the sides of actual mattresses to sleep on in thermal sleeping bags. Curtains acted as doors to each room.
Once we chose our rooms and were give instructions on how to sleep safely in cold weather, we were given a tour of the facility including the lavo where meals would be held and the 24-hour warm room where the restrooms, hot beverages and the sauna were housed. Also on the grounds was a reindeer park where we could pet and feed the reindeer and husky dogs for dogsled rides (but we’ve already completed that experience).
Entering and exiting warm rooms takes work because you have de-layer and layer every time, which can be a workout. I was thankful to de-layer though for dinner because after today’s excitement on the fjord, I was hungry! I sat with a family and a couple from France, the couple recently having moved to Norway due to work. We all attempted to speak to each other while we waited for dinner, which was fish, veggies, and huge baked potatoes being cooked over the roaring fire in the middle of the lavo. For our appetizer, we got to finish cooking the Norwegian version of the hot dog which was a reindeer sausage we roasted over the fire then wrapped in a tortilla-like bread made out of potatoes. Everything was delicious! Dessert was fitting for the occasion of being in a snow hotel – ice cream with fresh berries.
After dinner we were free to roam which spurred me to get my tripod and camera to do some Northern Lights hunting. Tonight the Aurora Borealis forecast said it would be the biggest showing of the week and since it was a clear night, I could only hope. I wandered about, taking pictures of the nightscape gorgeously illuminated by the almost full moon. Yes, I said moon, which meant no Northern Lights visibility. I was sad as this was my last night in Northern Lights territory but was also grateful that God allowed me to see them earlier in my trip and get a couple of good photos. It’s made me cherish those photos and that experience even more.
Even though there were other people staying in the snow hotel, I didn’t see or hear them the rest of the night. I roamed through the hotel as if I was the only one there. The silence that filled the hotel was broken only by the crunch of my footsteps on the snow floor and the sight and sound of my shallow breath hitting the cold air. I proceeded to take pictures of the hotel and my room like a mad woman, running about cautiously with my headlight on, using the tripod with my camera to take timed photos of myself. If anyone were to have seen me, it would have been a sight – that crazy American!
Since it was getting late and I would be loosing an hour due to Norway’s daylight savings time, I stripped to my long underwear, three pairs of wool socks, gloves, and hat and hopped into the mummy sleeping bag with only my face peeking out which I proceeded to burrow. The temperature inside the hotel was -4 to -7 degrees C but inside the sleeping bag I was quite comfortable. It was definitely a cool end to a day filled with the coolest experiences ever.
Today I would be going to the northern town of Kirkenes near the Russian boarder to go on a snowmobile safari on a frozen fjord and then sleep in a snow hotel, a hotel completely made of snow and ice, two things I’ve never done before but have wanted to do for some time. I admit, these two things are what attracted me to go on this adventure besides spying the Northern Lights. They definitely lived up to the cool factor in every sense of the word.
Since this trip has been one of my shortest, I’ve been changing hotels every night, which can be warring on the body and the soul because you don’t have as much time to absorb the surroundings. Being able to spend two nights on the cruise was a treat but at last, it was time to leave.
I checked out of my cabin at 8am and then headed up to breakfast where I met up with Angelika. I discovered she was also going on the snowmobile safari and actually went last year and loved it. There was another type of snowmobile safari she was debating about going on where they drop you off at one port and then you snowmobile through the arctic countryside to the next port. It sounded fun to her but she’s a novice and didn’t want the ship to leave her if she happened to be too slow and not make it back in time.
Angelika, a single woman in her 40’s has been on this cruise 3 times having fallen in love with the scenery. In the past, the cruise company would sit the single passengers together for dinner at a large table, which she appreciated because you get to meet people in a similar situation as you and end up making friends. She wasn’t looking to get married, but just have pleasant conversations.
On this cruise, they didn’t do that and squeezed in the singles wherever there was room, leaving many of them by themselves or with couples which proves to be awkward. At our table for dinner, she was sat with a threesome of friends. When I arrived, it was the most they had talked to Angelika on their entire trip thus far. Being a feisty German woman, she complained to the cruise management about the overall situation. On behalf of the single passengers, I’m glad she did.
I was a bit concerned about the logistics for the day, knowing I would be leaving the cruise but not knowing what to do with my luggage while on the snowmobile safari or how to get to the meeting point for the snow hotel. My directions said to take a taxi but this was a small village and a small port – taxi’s aren’t just parked out front. I got clarification from the ship’s tour director and with luggage in hand, on wheels and on my back; I proceeded to wait with the other tour goers for the ship to dock.
In front of the crowd was a cute British couple in their 80’s. With many languages being spoken where the majority of what’s being said is foreign to me, my ears tend to gravitate to English when heard so I couldn’t help but eavesdrop on their conversation. The little lady was nervously chirping away to her husband, seeming to convince herself that whatever excursion they were about to go on would be fine, even if their friends thought it was crazy or if she thought it was risky. He politely listened and wrapped his arm around her, a comforting gesture most likely practiced throughout their many years of marriage. The doors opened and with arms linked, they cautiously headed down the gangplank, she instructing him on how not to slip, an incident that I could tell was of grave concern for her that would not just put a damper on their trip but their lives.
I found my way to the vans for the snowmobile safari, gave my luggage to the driver to load and hopped in not only to see Angelika but the elderly British couple as well. They were going snowmobiling! I was so excited to see them! She brought her driver’s license just in case she wanted to drive but was hesitant. I told them we would race. ☺ They so inspired me. I hope I continue to be that adventurous and have the ability to do so when I’m their age.
When we arrived at Barents Safari and the fjord, we put on warm suits and helmets and received instructions in safety and how to drive – very easy. I was teamed up with a lady in her 20’s and since we both wanted to drive, decided to take turns.
Being last in line, I gave us some extra space between the snowmobile in front of us so I could get used to driving and play a bit with speed, as much as a slow convoy would allow. We as a group stopped in the middle of the fjord, and got to soak in the beautiful snow-covered banks of the fjord and let it sink in that we were standing on frozen water. Crazy! We learned there were three different landscapes we would encounter that day in Kirkenes – Arctic tundra, a birch tree line, and the Siberian forest. Just a few kilometers away was something that was unique to any part of the world. It was the point where three countries touched – Norway, Finland, and Russia. What makes it unique is that they each have a different time zone, which makes New Year’s fun because they get to celebrate three times!
We got back on our snowmobiles and those who wanted to go faster were instructed to get to the front of the line which we made a beeline for. We were booking it! Faster and faster we went until all of a sudden we started to slow down to a complete stop. The snowmobile died! Other snowmobiles came whizzing and puttering by as we tried to get it to start but nothing. Then there was silence on the fjord and us stranded in the middle of it. Thankfully, the other instructor and the captain of the ship who was also on our tour came to our aid. They tried to get it to start but nothing. We each split up and left the dead snowmobile, she going with the captain and I going with the mildly cheeky instructor who let me drive.
We were off again going faster and faster but the instructor slowed me down, telling me to keep it between 40 – 60 km/hr since we had to be last to make sure no one from the tour was left behind. This meant when I caught up to the ‘putterers’, I had to slow down even more - bummer.
On our second stop, I couldn’t help but stare in awe at the beauty surrounding me. The soft sunlight illuminated the kilometer of frozen water we were standing on, making the tree-lined banks visually pop in contrast. Time seemed to freeze along with the surroundings as my soul tried to savor these moments before we headed back.
A perk about being with the instructor was that I got to drive again but we again needed to be last. On our way back, we stopped at the dead snowmobile so the instructor could try to get it to start but after several attempts, decided to leave it for later.
Since the group was far ahead of us, I could go faster to catch up, still keeping in the 40-60 km/hr range, but when the captain and my former partner whizzed by, the throw down began. The instructor took control from behind, put his hands on mine, squeezed the accelerator, and we were off - 70, 80, 90, 100, 120 km/ hr (approx. 75 mph) we went as I hunkered down and hung on for the ride of my life as trees and snow became a blur. A permanent smile affixed itself on my face partially due to the speed and the adrenaline rush it was creating which only let exclamations of “woo hoo’s” and “yeah’s” escape my lips. It was more than I had hoped for and definitely was the coolest ride of my life.
We caught up to the group and took a break. This time, we headed back first so the instructor could get a fire started in the Lavo for the group. I assumed the passenger seat, got my camera out and was going to take pictures of the scenery. Plans changed as soon as we started when we began to book it. My hands affixed themselves firmly to the side handles as we zoomed through virgin snow; through trees and brush; and down and around hills much like I’ve done on sand in a dune buggy, places my tour mates did not get to go. Having my snowmobile die was a bummer but it was well worth it!
We ended our time together by having tea and dried reindeer meat in a warm lavo where we learned more about the Sami people. Not so long ago, country lines were drawn for this area where a good majority of Sami people live. When given the choice to be part of Norway or Russia, many of them chose to be affiliated with Russia, leaving only 25 Sami families in the Kirkenes area of Norway.
In seeing a picture of the people in the Sami parliament, I was intrigued to discover they are white. When I think of indigenous people, I automatically think of dark skin but their fair skin makes sense due to the area their people come from with there only being sun 6 months of the year. It was a stereotype I have that I became aware of.
We shed our extra layers and boarded the bus. The tour guide graciously dropped me off at the Rica Hotel Kirkenes, the meeting spot for the snow hotel later that evening. When I pulled on the door and discovered it was locked, I thought, “This is not good.” A note was affixed on it saying it was closed for Easter. Slight panic started to set in at the realization that my directions were wrong. I quickly looked back at the tour guide who thankfully hadn’t driven off yet. I walked back, luggage in tow and boarded the van again. He took me to the other hotel, the Rica Hotel Arctic where thankfully there were other snow hotel goers.
With a few hours to kill, I walked around the little town and did it. I fell, big time on my right side. I didn’t even see it coming, which was the problem. I was looking around and not down. The ice finally got me. I tried to play it off but the snow all over my butt and side was a dead giveaway. Thankfully not many people were out and about.
I did see something though that was new to me – a kick sledge that is basically a chair with a basket on skis used for getting around. I saw townspeople using them and played around on one parked outside a grocery store. They’re pretty fun and make sense to use with snow covered streets and sidewalks.
I headed back to the hotel where I relaxed and watched the snow fall in huge, soft, silent flakes before we were picked up for the snow hotel.
There were about 11 of us total bound for the snow hotel – two families, a couple, and I. Twilight was setting in turning the sky a fantastic navy blue, the almost full moon glowing over the dozens of snow mounds and burrows which made up the snow hotel. It reminded me much of what a Hobbit hotel would like in Lord of the Rings if it were covered in snow.
We walked through the meter thick wall of the snow cave entrance to the main reception area where an ice bar, ice chairs covered with reindeer hides, lounges, tables and different sculptures greeted us. There were two halls that housed a total of 20 rooms, each one individually decorated by artists with a different theme. We explored each room and got to choose which one we wanted for the night, a difficult choice. I chose what I call the “Heart Room” which had hearts carved into the snow walls. The reason I chose the room was because of the bed, which was an ice carving in the shape of a boat. It was a boat bed! Lights of different colors illuminated each room adding character to the snow-white canvas. Reindeer hides acted as carpets and ice blocks surrounded the sides of actual mattresses to sleep on in thermal sleeping bags. Curtains acted as doors to each room.
Once we chose our rooms and were give instructions on how to sleep safely in cold weather, we were given a tour of the facility including the lavo where meals would be held and the 24-hour warm room where the restrooms, hot beverages and the sauna were housed. Also on the grounds was a reindeer park where we could pet and feed the reindeer and husky dogs for dogsled rides (but we’ve already completed that experience).
Entering and exiting warm rooms takes work because you have de-layer and layer every time, which can be a workout. I was thankful to de-layer though for dinner because after today’s excitement on the fjord, I was hungry! I sat with a family and a couple from France, the couple recently having moved to Norway due to work. We all attempted to speak to each other while we waited for dinner, which was fish, veggies, and huge baked potatoes being cooked over the roaring fire in the middle of the lavo. For our appetizer, we got to finish cooking the Norwegian version of the hot dog which was a reindeer sausage we roasted over the fire then wrapped in a tortilla-like bread made out of potatoes. Everything was delicious! Dessert was fitting for the occasion of being in a snow hotel – ice cream with fresh berries.
After dinner we were free to roam which spurred me to get my tripod and camera to do some Northern Lights hunting. Tonight the Aurora Borealis forecast said it would be the biggest showing of the week and since it was a clear night, I could only hope. I wandered about, taking pictures of the nightscape gorgeously illuminated by the almost full moon. Yes, I said moon, which meant no Northern Lights visibility. I was sad as this was my last night in Northern Lights territory but was also grateful that God allowed me to see them earlier in my trip and get a couple of good photos. It’s made me cherish those photos and that experience even more.
Even though there were other people staying in the snow hotel, I didn’t see or hear them the rest of the night. I roamed through the hotel as if I was the only one there. The silence that filled the hotel was broken only by the crunch of my footsteps on the snow floor and the sight and sound of my shallow breath hitting the cold air. I proceeded to take pictures of the hotel and my room like a mad woman, running about cautiously with my headlight on, using the tripod with my camera to take timed photos of myself. If anyone were to have seen me, it would have been a sight – that crazy American!
Since it was getting late and I would be loosing an hour due to Norway’s daylight savings time, I stripped to my long underwear, three pairs of wool socks, gloves, and hat and hopped into the mummy sleeping bag with only my face peeking out which I proceeded to burrow. The temperature inside the hotel was -4 to -7 degrees C but inside the sleeping bag I was quite comfortable. It was definitely a cool end to a day filled with the coolest experiences ever.
Friday, March 26, 2010
At the Edge of the World…Well, Almost
It’s surreal to think I am in the Arctic Circle, cruising past frozen fjords and snow crusted hills along the frigid Barents Sea. It’s almost incomprehensible to think my journey continues to take me further North. Today, I’m going to the North Cape, the tippy tippy top, most northern point of Europe to stand at the edge of the world, well almost.
The cruise ship MS Nordlys docked and like a herd of cattle frenzied to break free from their fences, we proceeded to disembark and board our tour buses. Little old ladies and gentleman hovered at the door, ship passes in hand, chirping and chattering away about the adventures they soon would have. Two of my new German friends, Marina and Brigitte, found me and just like we’re taught in pre-school, grabbed my arm so the herd would not separate us. There were three buses, each in a different language. I left my German friends for the English-speaking bus but was delighted to see my other German friend, Angelika, on my bus whose English was very good.
The buses proceeded to follow each other past the harbor and through the steep, barren coast, which gives meaning to the island’s name, Magria. Rolling snow-entrenched hills and jagged cliffs exposed peeks of fjords surrounding us, looking much like the Sahara desert if it were in this cold climate. However, our tour guide proceeded to tell us it’s not as cold on this island compared to other arctic places due to the Gulf Steam, making the temperature about 20 degrees warmer. Still, cold is cold! Empty fishing houses sporadically dotted the hillside, known as ‘ghost houses’ because they are abandoned in winter, except for an occasional ghost or troll that may take up residence. :)
I was impressed to learn six thousand reindeer inhabit the island during the summer, all of which are owned by the Sami people. Reindeer are known as ‘Arctic Camels’ due to their resilience to the elements. Their hair has a hollow core allowing for natural insulation. They loose very little moisture and require very little water. Their lower half of their body is cooler than the rest making them have ‘cold feet’, allowing them not to be affected by the snow. Just before the winter, all 6,000 reindeer swim across the narrowest part of the sea to the mainland where it’s warmer and more food is available. Our guide showed us a picture. It’s such a sight to be seen – swarms of reindeer heads and antlers bobbing about in the water. The Sami people have 50 words for reindeer and 30 words for snow but in comparison have no words for ‘tax collector’. We can see what dictates their lives. Our words to describe the IRS tend to be choice adjectives that aren’t very flattering. Stil, it’s hard to understand how one can have so many words for something when we only have one word for it.
As for other wildlife, there are 300,000 Puffin birds that reside on the island, returning every April 14th in the evening like clockwork. Wouldn't that be a bird-a-phobic's worst nightmare! You’re on the island’s one sand beach looking out at the magnificent cloud forms off towards the horizon when you realize the clouds seem to be getting closer and closer. It's Alfred Hitchcock's movie come to life!
We continued to weave through the island finally meeting up with the other buses that were stopped. Apparently there is only one convoy a day to the North Cape in the winter which is led by a snowplow. This snowplow driver also is the one who has the key to the locked gate of the passage. We wound around with the snowplow leading the way, thankful to see the sun peek out of the clouds, casting fantastic shadows on the white wilderness. From November to January, there is no sun but only twilight, a blue light from about 8:30am - 1:30pm. Starting in July, they start loosing 15 minutes of light each day. What an interesting experience to behold!
The buses stopped and we filed out, the mobs streaming through the visitor's center to the famous globe out on the edge. Meanwhile, I hung back with veteran cruiser Angelika, who had been to the North Cape before. We let the crowds get their pictures while we absorbed the beauty and wild quietness around us. Bright white and so many shades of blue filled the sky like I had never seen. The normally windy vantage point was calm today, making it even more enjoyable to stand and see and be.
A young man approached me and in Spanish asked me to take his picture. When I responded in Spanish, his eyes lit up at being understood, thinking though I may be Italian since the languages are similar. I explained I was from California and found out he was from Spain. Out of all the languages swimming around in my head, this one I was more confident of and find it funny that when I travel to a foreign country that is not known for Spanish, I usually end up speaking it.
When the crowd subsided, Angelika and I got our time with the globe before returning to the visitor’s center to get back on the bus.
So far, language has not been as much of an issue as I anticipated because mostly everyone I’ve encountered from Europe speaks it. On the cruise, three languages are spoken when announcements are given: Norwegian, English, and German, in that order. Being in a country that speaks a language foreign to me causes me to listen and observe much more, trying to decipher key words and wait for the English translation. I do find I have all these languages plus Spanish swimming in my head so if someone speaks to me in another language, it sometimes takes me a few moments to get the right one in my head to attempt an answer back. Usually this leaves me speechless and I end up speaking English or talking in charades.
On board the ship, life is quiet. In the panorama room, people gather to sit and read, crochet, chat, play cards, or just stare at the scenery floating by. I was there to watch the skies for Northern Lights. In an instant, the clear, night sky turned cloudy, consuming the ship in fog and covering the decks with snow. However a few moments later, the moon was out again which is the beauty of being able to sail through a storm cloud to better weather. However, moonlight means poor visibility for Northern Lights.
With a no-show on the lights, I attempted to do something I’ve never done before – take a shower on a moving ship. I’m sure glad there were handrails to hang onto! I found out this is why Angelika takes her showers in port to lessen chances of having a bathing adventure.
When the roll of the waves intensifies as it did tonight, it messes with my head so I find that sleep helps to take me to my happy place and calm my motion sickness. With such scenes of wild beauty in my mind and the experience of being at the edge of the world, well almost, I shouldn’t have a problem getting there; just mind the birds and herds of reindeer in my path!
The cruise ship MS Nordlys docked and like a herd of cattle frenzied to break free from their fences, we proceeded to disembark and board our tour buses. Little old ladies and gentleman hovered at the door, ship passes in hand, chirping and chattering away about the adventures they soon would have. Two of my new German friends, Marina and Brigitte, found me and just like we’re taught in pre-school, grabbed my arm so the herd would not separate us. There were three buses, each in a different language. I left my German friends for the English-speaking bus but was delighted to see my other German friend, Angelika, on my bus whose English was very good.
The buses proceeded to follow each other past the harbor and through the steep, barren coast, which gives meaning to the island’s name, Magria. Rolling snow-entrenched hills and jagged cliffs exposed peeks of fjords surrounding us, looking much like the Sahara desert if it were in this cold climate. However, our tour guide proceeded to tell us it’s not as cold on this island compared to other arctic places due to the Gulf Steam, making the temperature about 20 degrees warmer. Still, cold is cold! Empty fishing houses sporadically dotted the hillside, known as ‘ghost houses’ because they are abandoned in winter, except for an occasional ghost or troll that may take up residence. :)
I was impressed to learn six thousand reindeer inhabit the island during the summer, all of which are owned by the Sami people. Reindeer are known as ‘Arctic Camels’ due to their resilience to the elements. Their hair has a hollow core allowing for natural insulation. They loose very little moisture and require very little water. Their lower half of their body is cooler than the rest making them have ‘cold feet’, allowing them not to be affected by the snow. Just before the winter, all 6,000 reindeer swim across the narrowest part of the sea to the mainland where it’s warmer and more food is available. Our guide showed us a picture. It’s such a sight to be seen – swarms of reindeer heads and antlers bobbing about in the water. The Sami people have 50 words for reindeer and 30 words for snow but in comparison have no words for ‘tax collector’. We can see what dictates their lives. Our words to describe the IRS tend to be choice adjectives that aren’t very flattering. Stil, it’s hard to understand how one can have so many words for something when we only have one word for it.
As for other wildlife, there are 300,000 Puffin birds that reside on the island, returning every April 14th in the evening like clockwork. Wouldn't that be a bird-a-phobic's worst nightmare! You’re on the island’s one sand beach looking out at the magnificent cloud forms off towards the horizon when you realize the clouds seem to be getting closer and closer. It's Alfred Hitchcock's movie come to life!
We continued to weave through the island finally meeting up with the other buses that were stopped. Apparently there is only one convoy a day to the North Cape in the winter which is led by a snowplow. This snowplow driver also is the one who has the key to the locked gate of the passage. We wound around with the snowplow leading the way, thankful to see the sun peek out of the clouds, casting fantastic shadows on the white wilderness. From November to January, there is no sun but only twilight, a blue light from about 8:30am - 1:30pm. Starting in July, they start loosing 15 minutes of light each day. What an interesting experience to behold!
The buses stopped and we filed out, the mobs streaming through the visitor's center to the famous globe out on the edge. Meanwhile, I hung back with veteran cruiser Angelika, who had been to the North Cape before. We let the crowds get their pictures while we absorbed the beauty and wild quietness around us. Bright white and so many shades of blue filled the sky like I had never seen. The normally windy vantage point was calm today, making it even more enjoyable to stand and see and be.
A young man approached me and in Spanish asked me to take his picture. When I responded in Spanish, his eyes lit up at being understood, thinking though I may be Italian since the languages are similar. I explained I was from California and found out he was from Spain. Out of all the languages swimming around in my head, this one I was more confident of and find it funny that when I travel to a foreign country that is not known for Spanish, I usually end up speaking it.
When the crowd subsided, Angelika and I got our time with the globe before returning to the visitor’s center to get back on the bus.
So far, language has not been as much of an issue as I anticipated because mostly everyone I’ve encountered from Europe speaks it. On the cruise, three languages are spoken when announcements are given: Norwegian, English, and German, in that order. Being in a country that speaks a language foreign to me causes me to listen and observe much more, trying to decipher key words and wait for the English translation. I do find I have all these languages plus Spanish swimming in my head so if someone speaks to me in another language, it sometimes takes me a few moments to get the right one in my head to attempt an answer back. Usually this leaves me speechless and I end up speaking English or talking in charades.
On board the ship, life is quiet. In the panorama room, people gather to sit and read, crochet, chat, play cards, or just stare at the scenery floating by. I was there to watch the skies for Northern Lights. In an instant, the clear, night sky turned cloudy, consuming the ship in fog and covering the decks with snow. However a few moments later, the moon was out again which is the beauty of being able to sail through a storm cloud to better weather. However, moonlight means poor visibility for Northern Lights.
With a no-show on the lights, I attempted to do something I’ve never done before – take a shower on a moving ship. I’m sure glad there were handrails to hang onto! I found out this is why Angelika takes her showers in port to lessen chances of having a bathing adventure.
When the roll of the waves intensifies as it did tonight, it messes with my head so I find that sleep helps to take me to my happy place and calm my motion sickness. With such scenes of wild beauty in my mind and the experience of being at the edge of the world, well almost, I shouldn’t have a problem getting there; just mind the birds and herds of reindeer in my path!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Slipping Through Norway
Today was a ‘free day’, a day where there was no particular place to be or thing to do. I appreciate ‘free days’ because it gives me a chance to breathe and do whatever I want to do, even if it’s nothing fascinating. When given the chance I like to wander and watch life around me, things that normally slip by in the day to day hustle of life. Little did I know I would have company.
Based on my dining experiences so far, Norwegians are known for fish, lots of fish which can be found at every meal. Breakfast on the other hand was nothing spectacular, but a less tasty version of the English breakfasts I experienced last year on my travels through England, Scotland, and Ireland.
However, this morning’s breakfast brought with it my new Australian friends I met last night during dog sledding. John, who hid behind me in the sled and his daughter, Sally, joined me for breakfast. They had booked a different tour with the same travel agency as me and were set to leave for their next destination that afternoon – a cabin in the wilderness. This meant we all had time to kill.
They had already explored a bit of Tromso since they arrived a day earlier than I and told me of the arctic museum, Polaris which has seals, meaning they have two seals, which Sally said is just enough to allow them to make the word plural. They didn’t recommend it and since I’ve come from having the Monterey Bay Aquarium in my backyard, I’ve become spoiled. However, they invited me to romp with them through the town which was a delightful surprise.
We walked all through the town, the focal point of our day literally was the walking because it was tricky when ice crossed our paths, causing us to do a cautious shuffle or an unaticipated break dance move if we weren't careful, even with my snow shoes. A local boy showed us up when he came skiing past us down a hill on his shoes. John slipped and bit the dust. I've been fortunate so far but I'm sure my days are numbered.
It was a beautiful, crisp, clear day for the romp and I was grateful for such delightful company I could joke and goof off with. I’ve found most people I’ve encountered speak English but it’s different when you can joke with someone and they can joke back. It's deeper communication than speaking for survival.
Sally has traveled a bit herself and had been to my neck of the woods. She currently lives in London. I told her of my travels there and my fascination with the buildings because they’re so old! This is a common reaction from Americans and Australians because we are from countries with fairly young histories. After their Norway excursions, she and her dad were heading to Edinburgh to rent a car and travel through Scotland, a trip Sally’s done many times, well, three times, just enough to qualify to use the word ‘many’.
We grabbed a sandwich at a local deli and headed back to the hotel so they could catch their ride. I had about four more hours before I needed to board the ship so I explored a bit more, roaming through stores where the price tags of items showed that the term ‘reasonably priced’ was lost in translation. Actually, the government pays for health care and schooling, including college for its people which is funded by taxes, explaining the high cost of goods. Still though – ouch!
I meandered back to the hotel where I relaxed in the lounge, using the last internet access I’d have for a couple of days before I boarded my first cruise ship, the MS Nordlys, a 615 passenger ship. I was greeted at the door by having my hands sprayed with disinfectant, a greeting that took me off guard at first but understandable with the latest health scares. I was checked into my room which was an outside cabin with a porthole!
Dinner was announced just as I boarded so I made my way to the dining room, feeling drunk due to the movement of the boat which made walking in a straight line a challenge. Thankfully it wasn't always this way! I was seated next to four German passengers aboard the cruise for a lengthier time than I. They proceeded to speak English to me and I my little bit of German where they gave me the lay of the land and educated me on how things operate. There is a whole cruise culture I was not aware of!
After dinner, I explored the ship and its viewing areas but this would not suffice. My sights were directed towards the sky in search of the Northern Lights. I went back to my cabin, put on all my warm gear and with tripod and camera in hand, I headed out on deck watching and waiting and wandering around and around the outside of the ship as the crisp air kissed my face, at times a bit too intensely. I didn’t see anything but wisps of clouds so I decided to get some night photography practice in. Little did I know intermingled with those wisps of clouds were the Northern Lights, which I didn’t see until after I took the photos!
Being that we’re on a moving vessel, the photos didn’t turn out well but the Northern Lights are visible in them. I’m feeling more confident that should they appear again when I am on land, I should be able to capture them. My fascination with them continues to grow, giving me hope that in these next few days their shyness will have dissipated and they can officially welcome me to their home, provided they nor I don't slip on by in the meantime.
Based on my dining experiences so far, Norwegians are known for fish, lots of fish which can be found at every meal. Breakfast on the other hand was nothing spectacular, but a less tasty version of the English breakfasts I experienced last year on my travels through England, Scotland, and Ireland.
However, this morning’s breakfast brought with it my new Australian friends I met last night during dog sledding. John, who hid behind me in the sled and his daughter, Sally, joined me for breakfast. They had booked a different tour with the same travel agency as me and were set to leave for their next destination that afternoon – a cabin in the wilderness. This meant we all had time to kill.
They had already explored a bit of Tromso since they arrived a day earlier than I and told me of the arctic museum, Polaris which has seals, meaning they have two seals, which Sally said is just enough to allow them to make the word plural. They didn’t recommend it and since I’ve come from having the Monterey Bay Aquarium in my backyard, I’ve become spoiled. However, they invited me to romp with them through the town which was a delightful surprise.
We walked all through the town, the focal point of our day literally was the walking because it was tricky when ice crossed our paths, causing us to do a cautious shuffle or an unaticipated break dance move if we weren't careful, even with my snow shoes. A local boy showed us up when he came skiing past us down a hill on his shoes. John slipped and bit the dust. I've been fortunate so far but I'm sure my days are numbered.
It was a beautiful, crisp, clear day for the romp and I was grateful for such delightful company I could joke and goof off with. I’ve found most people I’ve encountered speak English but it’s different when you can joke with someone and they can joke back. It's deeper communication than speaking for survival.
Sally has traveled a bit herself and had been to my neck of the woods. She currently lives in London. I told her of my travels there and my fascination with the buildings because they’re so old! This is a common reaction from Americans and Australians because we are from countries with fairly young histories. After their Norway excursions, she and her dad were heading to Edinburgh to rent a car and travel through Scotland, a trip Sally’s done many times, well, three times, just enough to qualify to use the word ‘many’.
We grabbed a sandwich at a local deli and headed back to the hotel so they could catch their ride. I had about four more hours before I needed to board the ship so I explored a bit more, roaming through stores where the price tags of items showed that the term ‘reasonably priced’ was lost in translation. Actually, the government pays for health care and schooling, including college for its people which is funded by taxes, explaining the high cost of goods. Still though – ouch!
I meandered back to the hotel where I relaxed in the lounge, using the last internet access I’d have for a couple of days before I boarded my first cruise ship, the MS Nordlys, a 615 passenger ship. I was greeted at the door by having my hands sprayed with disinfectant, a greeting that took me off guard at first but understandable with the latest health scares. I was checked into my room which was an outside cabin with a porthole!
Dinner was announced just as I boarded so I made my way to the dining room, feeling drunk due to the movement of the boat which made walking in a straight line a challenge. Thankfully it wasn't always this way! I was seated next to four German passengers aboard the cruise for a lengthier time than I. They proceeded to speak English to me and I my little bit of German where they gave me the lay of the land and educated me on how things operate. There is a whole cruise culture I was not aware of!
After dinner, I explored the ship and its viewing areas but this would not suffice. My sights were directed towards the sky in search of the Northern Lights. I went back to my cabin, put on all my warm gear and with tripod and camera in hand, I headed out on deck watching and waiting and wandering around and around the outside of the ship as the crisp air kissed my face, at times a bit too intensely. I didn’t see anything but wisps of clouds so I decided to get some night photography practice in. Little did I know intermingled with those wisps of clouds were the Northern Lights, which I didn’t see until after I took the photos!
Being that we’re on a moving vessel, the photos didn’t turn out well but the Northern Lights are visible in them. I’m feeling more confident that should they appear again when I am on land, I should be able to capture them. My fascination with them continues to grow, giving me hope that in these next few days their shyness will have dissipated and they can officially welcome me to their home, provided they nor I don't slip on by in the meantime.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
What They Don't Tell You About Dog Sledding
I hate to even mention it. It's not something you talk about in polite society even though it is a natural part of life. While many words have been used to describe it, I was raised not to use the 'f---' word. So out of honor for my parents, I will use a synonym: flatulence. It has been the butt of many jokes (that pun's for you, Chris!) over the years, mainly in children's circles. Tonight was no exception.
The bus to the Tromso Wilderness Center picked me up out front of my hotel a wee bit before sunset to head out to my next adventure: dog sledding. I hadn't really thought about dog sledding as an adventure I wanted to do, but when given the opportunity, I went for it not quite knowing what to expect. I did have a picture in mind that involved a sled, a team of dogs, lots of snow and me bundled up in the sled under a warm reindeer hide. While that picture did come to fruition, the reality was far different than what played out in my mind's eye.
A friend of mine who went on a dog sled ride in Alaska had told me about the phenomenon of 'pee running', where the team of dogs learn to pee on-the-go, running with three legs while the remaining leg balanced in mid-air at a 90 degree angle to do the deed. A dog's need to pee while on the 'road' had never crossed my mind so on my adventure, I was on the lookout.
We were all given snow suits and warm shoes to put over our clothes to keep us warm and boy, did we need them! A gentleman from Australia, John shared a sled with me while his daughter, Sally, drove an empty sled. I snuggled into the bottom of the sled with a reindeer hide covering my legs while John sat on a seat behind me.
Our team of 14 dogs and us were off with two other sleds in front of us bound for the snowy wilderness on the outskirts of Tromso. Twilight had settled over the city, giving the sky a bluish tint which seemed to cause the city lights to come to life as well as myself. But any remaining amount of jet lag that lingered in my body was swiftly knocked out as our trail turned to a hilly, bumpy path of ice, causing me to go airborne on more than one occasion, making me thankful for the heavy reindeer blanket over me to hold me in. Through virgin snow and brush-lined paths we went, bumping and banging along when it was like I hit a brick wall of horrendous odor, smothering my face better than the feeble attempts of my scarf. I had no doubt what it was because they were all staring me right in the face - dog behinds.
They don't tell you this and maybe it should be common sense that when you're sitting in the dog sled, you're at the same level as the dogs which allows you to have a good view of the dogs in action in every sense of the word. While I did witness 'pee running' which I must say is a pretty amazing feat, my friend failed to tell me what happens when the dogs need to go 'number 2'. They did what looked like a 'running squat'. It was nowhere as graceful as the 'pee running'. I felt bad for them.
It seemed my team of dogs had to go quite frequently, especially the ones right in front of me. I think one of them had a spastic colon. It reminded me of the Seinfeld episode where Kramer took George's fiance's parents on a horse carriage ride and the horse let loose something fierce because Kramer fed him Beefaroni.
I grabbed my scarf and smothered it over my nose and blew air out my mouth to help repel the foul odor but that just caused my glasses to fog up. So we're gliding and banging along the path, my glasses are semi-fogged up and my hand is freezing even with gloves on as I try to hold the scarf over my nose which gravity keeps pulling away, all the while trying to keep myself from slipping in my seat. I gave up on taking pictures by this time. It was too dark for action shots and besides, this was about survival. John, sitting behind me used me as a barrier, the little bugger.
While it was lovely being in the snowy wilderness under a clear, star-lit sky, I had never been so thankful to see the lights from where we started our adventure. However, I can now scratch dog sledding off my scavenger hunt list.
After the sled ride, we got to hang out with what seemed like a couple hundred dogs all friendly and barking, hold puppies, and have a traditional dinner in a lavo (teepee) from the Sami people, the Scandinavian equivalent of our Native Americans. The warm fire that greeted us inside the wood lavo was welcomed, along with the hot soup, reindeer meat that tasted like pot roast, cooked veggies, chocolate cake, and hot coffee. The tour guide asked the group how they liked the dog sled ride. The others raved on how excellent it was. John and I glanced at each other from across the fire and both said nothing with this rule in mind: "If you don't have something nice to say than don't say anything at all." We did comment on how wonderful the meal was. However, amidst the chatter we heard a ruckus outside and quickly discovered we were not alone.
Another group that was with us had stepped outside of the lavo only to be greeted with the faint whisperings of Northern Lights overhead! They seemed to appear and disappear at a whim in the sky, almost looking like a faint wisp of computer green clouds. After dinner, I grabbed my tripod and camera, found a snowy seat on the ground and started taking pictures like I had practiced at home in the backyard, hoping to capture them, even in their faintness. I was excited to discover I had, even though they are a bit grainy. It was such a surprise to see them and on my first night in 'Northern Lights' country. My anticipation grows as I continue to venture further north into the Arctic Circle as a higher intensity show is expected provided clouds do not obstruct them. It was a wonderful way to end a not so pleasant-smelling experience.
As I boarded the bus back to my hotel and settled into my seat, something didn't smell so well. I sniffed some more. You know the saying, "If you smelled it you dealt it?" Well, I swear it wasn't me. It was the dogs! I smelled like dog flatulence! When I got back to my room, I made a hot bath and soaked in my lavender-smelling bath wash. That is one memento I do not wish to take with me.
So if you are planning on going on a dog sled ride, don't say I didn't warn you. You may consider driving the sled. Perhaps the air is better up there.
The bus to the Tromso Wilderness Center picked me up out front of my hotel a wee bit before sunset to head out to my next adventure: dog sledding. I hadn't really thought about dog sledding as an adventure I wanted to do, but when given the opportunity, I went for it not quite knowing what to expect. I did have a picture in mind that involved a sled, a team of dogs, lots of snow and me bundled up in the sled under a warm reindeer hide. While that picture did come to fruition, the reality was far different than what played out in my mind's eye.
A friend of mine who went on a dog sled ride in Alaska had told me about the phenomenon of 'pee running', where the team of dogs learn to pee on-the-go, running with three legs while the remaining leg balanced in mid-air at a 90 degree angle to do the deed. A dog's need to pee while on the 'road' had never crossed my mind so on my adventure, I was on the lookout.
We were all given snow suits and warm shoes to put over our clothes to keep us warm and boy, did we need them! A gentleman from Australia, John shared a sled with me while his daughter, Sally, drove an empty sled. I snuggled into the bottom of the sled with a reindeer hide covering my legs while John sat on a seat behind me.
Our team of 14 dogs and us were off with two other sleds in front of us bound for the snowy wilderness on the outskirts of Tromso. Twilight had settled over the city, giving the sky a bluish tint which seemed to cause the city lights to come to life as well as myself. But any remaining amount of jet lag that lingered in my body was swiftly knocked out as our trail turned to a hilly, bumpy path of ice, causing me to go airborne on more than one occasion, making me thankful for the heavy reindeer blanket over me to hold me in. Through virgin snow and brush-lined paths we went, bumping and banging along when it was like I hit a brick wall of horrendous odor, smothering my face better than the feeble attempts of my scarf. I had no doubt what it was because they were all staring me right in the face - dog behinds.
They don't tell you this and maybe it should be common sense that when you're sitting in the dog sled, you're at the same level as the dogs which allows you to have a good view of the dogs in action in every sense of the word. While I did witness 'pee running' which I must say is a pretty amazing feat, my friend failed to tell me what happens when the dogs need to go 'number 2'. They did what looked like a 'running squat'. It was nowhere as graceful as the 'pee running'. I felt bad for them.
It seemed my team of dogs had to go quite frequently, especially the ones right in front of me. I think one of them had a spastic colon. It reminded me of the Seinfeld episode where Kramer took George's fiance's parents on a horse carriage ride and the horse let loose something fierce because Kramer fed him Beefaroni.
I grabbed my scarf and smothered it over my nose and blew air out my mouth to help repel the foul odor but that just caused my glasses to fog up. So we're gliding and banging along the path, my glasses are semi-fogged up and my hand is freezing even with gloves on as I try to hold the scarf over my nose which gravity keeps pulling away, all the while trying to keep myself from slipping in my seat. I gave up on taking pictures by this time. It was too dark for action shots and besides, this was about survival. John, sitting behind me used me as a barrier, the little bugger.
While it was lovely being in the snowy wilderness under a clear, star-lit sky, I had never been so thankful to see the lights from where we started our adventure. However, I can now scratch dog sledding off my scavenger hunt list.
After the sled ride, we got to hang out with what seemed like a couple hundred dogs all friendly and barking, hold puppies, and have a traditional dinner in a lavo (teepee) from the Sami people, the Scandinavian equivalent of our Native Americans. The warm fire that greeted us inside the wood lavo was welcomed, along with the hot soup, reindeer meat that tasted like pot roast, cooked veggies, chocolate cake, and hot coffee. The tour guide asked the group how they liked the dog sled ride. The others raved on how excellent it was. John and I glanced at each other from across the fire and both said nothing with this rule in mind: "If you don't have something nice to say than don't say anything at all." We did comment on how wonderful the meal was. However, amidst the chatter we heard a ruckus outside and quickly discovered we were not alone.
Another group that was with us had stepped outside of the lavo only to be greeted with the faint whisperings of Northern Lights overhead! They seemed to appear and disappear at a whim in the sky, almost looking like a faint wisp of computer green clouds. After dinner, I grabbed my tripod and camera, found a snowy seat on the ground and started taking pictures like I had practiced at home in the backyard, hoping to capture them, even in their faintness. I was excited to discover I had, even though they are a bit grainy. It was such a surprise to see them and on my first night in 'Northern Lights' country. My anticipation grows as I continue to venture further north into the Arctic Circle as a higher intensity show is expected provided clouds do not obstruct them. It was a wonderful way to end a not so pleasant-smelling experience.
As I boarded the bus back to my hotel and settled into my seat, something didn't smell so well. I sniffed some more. You know the saying, "If you smelled it you dealt it?" Well, I swear it wasn't me. It was the dogs! I smelled like dog flatulence! When I got back to my room, I made a hot bath and soaked in my lavender-smelling bath wash. That is one memento I do not wish to take with me.
So if you are planning on going on a dog sled ride, don't say I didn't warn you. You may consider driving the sled. Perhaps the air is better up there.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
I'm in Frickin' Norway!
I'm sitting here looking out the window of the plane as it's approaching the Oslo airport. Snow covers the ground, the sun has just set and twilight fights to take control of the sky. I have just been traveling for what feels like one LONG day. I'm exhausted, nervous, thankful, and excited all at the same time. As I stare into the sky I realize, I'm in frickin' Norway! It's not just a thought, a whim, or a crazy fancy, but it's real! Northern Lights have a chance to appear in that sky!
As I got off the plane and collected my baggage, I realized the Norwegian Special Olympics team was on my plane. I passed their small collection of fans waving Norwegian flags on my way out of customs towards the train station. I took the airport express train to my hotel to get me there quicker as this long day needed to end and in a nice, warm, comfy bed preferably with a hot shower beforehand.
Brisk air escorted me on the 5 minute walk to my hotel down wide, lighted sidewalks that beckoned people to take a night walk. I got checked into my hotel and settled into my room with the sheer joy that I had successfully made it to Norway. Let the Norway adventure begin!
As I got off the plane and collected my baggage, I realized the Norwegian Special Olympics team was on my plane. I passed their small collection of fans waving Norwegian flags on my way out of customs towards the train station. I took the airport express train to my hotel to get me there quicker as this long day needed to end and in a nice, warm, comfy bed preferably with a hot shower beforehand.
Brisk air escorted me on the 5 minute walk to my hotel down wide, lighted sidewalks that beckoned people to take a night walk. I got checked into my hotel and settled into my room with the sheer joy that I had successfully made it to Norway. Let the Norway adventure begin!
Drinking in Life One Gulp at a Time: The Amsterdam Adventures
I believe we were made for adventure, to touch it, taste it, drink it in, which is one reason why I like to travel. It shakes up the monotony of life; the day-to-day doings that at one time were an adventure but turned commonplace with their repetitive nature and initiation into my comfort zone. Without new experiences to feed into our lives, we easily become static, sticky, and stuck in our own world, looking but not truly seeing the beauty and extraordinary that’s around us waiting to be explored. We become blind-sighted.
I find it easier to drink in new experiences one gulp at a time so I can savor them and not get overwhelmed by their newness in my life or their power. For some experiences, a little goes a long way, making them hard to swallow as I would soon discover.
This trip, I was fortunate enough to have another layover in Amsterdam where I planned to take the train to the city central and walk the 20 minutes to the Anne Frank House. Since I had taken the train before, I felt fairly confident about this excursion, even though I’d be exploring another part of the city. I timed it so I should arrive in plenty of time to find my way to the Anne Frank House since I had a 1:15pm pre-paid tour.
It didn’t faze me at first when most of the people on the train got off at this one stop because I thought I heard the announcer say in Danish that we had one more stop. So I waited…and waited. I started to get concerned when after 10 minutes we hadn’t moved. Stops never took that long. The padding in my schedule was growing thin with each passing minute. My inner voice kept telling me to peek out the door to see what station we were at but I ignored it. My new experience shyness and past experience confidence combined to overpowered it.
The train whistle blew and the doors closed. I began to mentally prepare for a fast-paced walk to make my tour time but it’s when the train started to move that I froze. It wasn’t going to city central. It WAS at city central and was now going back to the airport! Uffda! Darn it! As the train sped up, I saw all my Amsterdam plans drift past me as buildings, trees, and a nice, clear day flew by, scenery I already saw! I wanted to jump off or somehow make the train stop but was bummed that I had no control to do so.
I began to formulate plan B. I knew I’d miss my tour, which I was bummed about, but I had enough time to hop back on the train once it reached the airport, come back, get off the train at the correct station and quickly see some of the city. As I resigned to this plan, the train slowed to a stop, which was odd because it was a non-stop journey the other times I rode it. Apparently the train was on a new route coming from city central so I quickly jumped off with thankfulness and got on the adjacent train that led me back to city central. All I could do was smirk with inner glee as I sensed God chuckling. I had no power to stop the train but He did, giving me a second chance at my Amsterdam adventure. With that, my travel mindset kicked into gear. Plan A was back on but it would definitely be a race against time to make my tour.
Both times I’ve been to Amsterdam, the weather has been beautiful with clear, blue skies, warm weather in the high 60’s, low 70’s and a soft, rosy light that gives the canals and houseboats a romantic hue. It makes me want to explore the city even more in the future. It's too bad that each time I anticipated it to be much cooler, leaving me to my sweat box of a jacket, which concealed my day’s belongings.
I quickened my pace down the Damrack, weaving in and out of meandering tourists and oncoming bicycles while on the lookout for the next street that would take me to the Anne Frank House, smiling at the sight of the street sign because I was that much closer. Despite my morning’s additional adventure, I was impressed that I was only 15 minutes late. Still though, I missed my pre-paid, non-refundable tour. Graciously, they let me in.
Finally having a chance to de-layer, I settled into the self-guided tour that would lead me through the house and life of the Frank family, ultimately past the secret bookcase and up the steep, narrow stairs into the hiding place. Snippets of testimonials played on TV’s while artifacts and quotes displayed in rooms told their story and in a way, the many stories of those who met similar fates, which intensified with each level of the house that I climbed.
The mood was solemn as each person on the tour tried to swallow these horrific realities. Seeing the yellow star of David; the history and memories that marched down streets I had just scurried along; seeing the rent records from the almost all Jewish neighborhood in which they lived say the occupants had ‘moved out’; and finally seeing the names of the Frank family in a 3- inch high book of Jews who were killed was more than I could swallow.
After all that, I find it hard to understand how Anne can claim that man is basically good when evil like that exists. The reality is that same spirit of evil exists today and stories of genocide are sadly being played out throughout the world. It's important to savor these experiences in small gulps, no matter how bitter-tasting they are so we remember and fight to stop history from repeating itself. I was impressed though with the sheer perseverance of a people under persecution who have been persecuted for centuries.
I strolled back towards the train station enjoying the many canals and houseboats and carefree bicyclists enjoying the day, got on the correct train and made it back in plenty of time for my connecting flight to begin my Norway adventure. For a 6-hour layover adventure that almost didn’t happen, I’m thankful I got to drink in these experiences, even if at times it was like drinking out of a fire hose.
I find it easier to drink in new experiences one gulp at a time so I can savor them and not get overwhelmed by their newness in my life or their power. For some experiences, a little goes a long way, making them hard to swallow as I would soon discover.
This trip, I was fortunate enough to have another layover in Amsterdam where I planned to take the train to the city central and walk the 20 minutes to the Anne Frank House. Since I had taken the train before, I felt fairly confident about this excursion, even though I’d be exploring another part of the city. I timed it so I should arrive in plenty of time to find my way to the Anne Frank House since I had a 1:15pm pre-paid tour.
It didn’t faze me at first when most of the people on the train got off at this one stop because I thought I heard the announcer say in Danish that we had one more stop. So I waited…and waited. I started to get concerned when after 10 minutes we hadn’t moved. Stops never took that long. The padding in my schedule was growing thin with each passing minute. My inner voice kept telling me to peek out the door to see what station we were at but I ignored it. My new experience shyness and past experience confidence combined to overpowered it.
The train whistle blew and the doors closed. I began to mentally prepare for a fast-paced walk to make my tour time but it’s when the train started to move that I froze. It wasn’t going to city central. It WAS at city central and was now going back to the airport! Uffda! Darn it! As the train sped up, I saw all my Amsterdam plans drift past me as buildings, trees, and a nice, clear day flew by, scenery I already saw! I wanted to jump off or somehow make the train stop but was bummed that I had no control to do so.
I began to formulate plan B. I knew I’d miss my tour, which I was bummed about, but I had enough time to hop back on the train once it reached the airport, come back, get off the train at the correct station and quickly see some of the city. As I resigned to this plan, the train slowed to a stop, which was odd because it was a non-stop journey the other times I rode it. Apparently the train was on a new route coming from city central so I quickly jumped off with thankfulness and got on the adjacent train that led me back to city central. All I could do was smirk with inner glee as I sensed God chuckling. I had no power to stop the train but He did, giving me a second chance at my Amsterdam adventure. With that, my travel mindset kicked into gear. Plan A was back on but it would definitely be a race against time to make my tour.
Both times I’ve been to Amsterdam, the weather has been beautiful with clear, blue skies, warm weather in the high 60’s, low 70’s and a soft, rosy light that gives the canals and houseboats a romantic hue. It makes me want to explore the city even more in the future. It's too bad that each time I anticipated it to be much cooler, leaving me to my sweat box of a jacket, which concealed my day’s belongings.
I quickened my pace down the Damrack, weaving in and out of meandering tourists and oncoming bicycles while on the lookout for the next street that would take me to the Anne Frank House, smiling at the sight of the street sign because I was that much closer. Despite my morning’s additional adventure, I was impressed that I was only 15 minutes late. Still though, I missed my pre-paid, non-refundable tour. Graciously, they let me in.
Finally having a chance to de-layer, I settled into the self-guided tour that would lead me through the house and life of the Frank family, ultimately past the secret bookcase and up the steep, narrow stairs into the hiding place. Snippets of testimonials played on TV’s while artifacts and quotes displayed in rooms told their story and in a way, the many stories of those who met similar fates, which intensified with each level of the house that I climbed.
The mood was solemn as each person on the tour tried to swallow these horrific realities. Seeing the yellow star of David; the history and memories that marched down streets I had just scurried along; seeing the rent records from the almost all Jewish neighborhood in which they lived say the occupants had ‘moved out’; and finally seeing the names of the Frank family in a 3- inch high book of Jews who were killed was more than I could swallow.
After all that, I find it hard to understand how Anne can claim that man is basically good when evil like that exists. The reality is that same spirit of evil exists today and stories of genocide are sadly being played out throughout the world. It's important to savor these experiences in small gulps, no matter how bitter-tasting they are so we remember and fight to stop history from repeating itself. I was impressed though with the sheer perseverance of a people under persecution who have been persecuted for centuries.
I strolled back towards the train station enjoying the many canals and houseboats and carefree bicyclists enjoying the day, got on the correct train and made it back in plenty of time for my connecting flight to begin my Norway adventure. For a 6-hour layover adventure that almost didn’t happen, I’m thankful I got to drink in these experiences, even if at times it was like drinking out of a fire hose.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
The Solo Sojourner Stikes Again!
It's been just shy of a year since my last big traveling adventure to England, Scotland, and Ireland so people are caught off guard when they find out I'm at it again. When they hear I'm going to Norway, the semi-curious looks turn to shock as they exclaim, "Norway?! Why Norway?"
Believe me, I didn't set out to go to Norway, but Norway found me. I didn't expect to go on another large traveling adventure so soon, especially since I began Graduate School, but when I found out that this next week I would have a break between classes and the University I work at would be closed as well due to state budget cuts, it was if all the planets aligned. The traveling bug within me began to stir.
"Where can I go? What can I do?" My thoughts drifted back to my life's scavenger hunt list, which in other circles would be known as one's bucket list. I don't look at the things on my list as things I want to do before I die, but it's things I want to keep an eye out for in case the opportunity presents itself to seize, like on a scavenger hunt. Instead of looking for eggs or some other trinket, I'm in search of experiences that hopefully will enhance who I am and in turn those around me, of course with a bit of whimsy. :)
The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights have fascinated me. These mystical dancing colored lights visible in the arctic regions have been something on my list I've wanted to experience. Much folklore, traditions, and interpretations have been built up around these lights.
My Grandma saw the Northern Lights when she was a girl of 10 in Michigan. Not known for showing themselves that far south, these lights came as quite a shock, a mystical sight to behold, interpreted as a warning from the Virgin Mary that something in the world was about to change. The next year, World War I began. During the Civil War, the lights appeared in the South of the US which was unheard of! They were interpreted as a sign by each side that they were going to win the battle. Hmmm...
These lights snuck up on a colleague of mine while in Alaska. He stood there in the snowy darkness, awe-struck, and proceeded to lay down in the snow to enjoy the spectacular light show. A dear friend of mine saw them also while in Alaska as they danced and twirled and bowed and sang in their own way above her head. She wept. To her, it was "visible grace."
Like my friends, I too started my Northern Lights trip research in Alaska and Canada and found out this trip was doable in a week, provided the Northern Lights decided to show themselves. November to April are prime "lights" spotting so I would be in the time frame. The more I researched it, Norway kept popping up as one of the best places to see the lights. Norway?! I hadn't thought of Norway but the more I looked into it, it seemed to be a perfect fit. I wold get another stamp in my passport and accomplish other experiences I didn't even realize I wanted to do like ride in a dog sled, take a cruise to the North Cape, snowmobile on a frozen fjord, and stay in an ice hotel. Brrrr!
When people hear of these arctic excursions, a twinkle in their eyes appear, I think because for most, it's something completely out-of-the-box that intrigues them, perhaps even do someday, spurring them to ask, "Is this a group tour or did you put this all together yourself?" It's a self-guided tour a travel agency put together, taking care of all the accommodations, excursions, most transportation, and meals. Impressed, they proceed to ask, "Who are you going with?" "I'm going by myself," I reply with a slight smile knowing what the reaction will be. "Oh my!" "Holy @$%&#!" "Be careful!" "Watch out for those creeps!"
I admit, I get a slight pleasure out of the reaction because it's for that reason of what motivates those comments I find it important to go - fear. Many people, especially women are afraid to be alone even if it's going to dinner by themselves. Second, many women are afraid to travel alone, especially abroad and for good reason. We as a sex have been prey far too many times which is why I take additional safety precautions. I find myself single and do not want scavenger hunt moments to pass me by because I couldn't find someone to go with.
We've not been given a spirit of fear but of power, a piece of scripture I quote frequently as part of my pep-talk when preparing to go out of my comfort zone. However, I've squeezed that piece of scripture into my suitcase to help me on my journey, along with my quick-drying long underwear, multiple fluffy, warm layers of clothing, and snow boots that can withstand temperatures of -25 degrees F.
Besides going to one of the coldest places I've ever experienced which isn't saying much since I'm from California, I most likely will experience a language barrier as the chief language is Norwegian so I'll be taking additional steps out of my comfort zone. I've been practicing important phrases though, mainly, "Do you speak English?"
In addition to the new steps I'll be taking on this adventure, there are a few things I wish to experience which made it on this trip's scavenger hunt list. They are as follows:
Links:
The Geophysical Institute
To follow the intensity of the Northern Lights (use the Europe view for 'Tromso'). Currently the view is quiet but they're expecting a moderate show on Saturday so please pray the sky will be clear so I can see them.
Norway weather
So you can experience the briskness with me!
Believe me, I didn't set out to go to Norway, but Norway found me. I didn't expect to go on another large traveling adventure so soon, especially since I began Graduate School, but when I found out that this next week I would have a break between classes and the University I work at would be closed as well due to state budget cuts, it was if all the planets aligned. The traveling bug within me began to stir.
"Where can I go? What can I do?" My thoughts drifted back to my life's scavenger hunt list, which in other circles would be known as one's bucket list. I don't look at the things on my list as things I want to do before I die, but it's things I want to keep an eye out for in case the opportunity presents itself to seize, like on a scavenger hunt. Instead of looking for eggs or some other trinket, I'm in search of experiences that hopefully will enhance who I am and in turn those around me, of course with a bit of whimsy. :)
The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights have fascinated me. These mystical dancing colored lights visible in the arctic regions have been something on my list I've wanted to experience. Much folklore, traditions, and interpretations have been built up around these lights.
My Grandma saw the Northern Lights when she was a girl of 10 in Michigan. Not known for showing themselves that far south, these lights came as quite a shock, a mystical sight to behold, interpreted as a warning from the Virgin Mary that something in the world was about to change. The next year, World War I began. During the Civil War, the lights appeared in the South of the US which was unheard of! They were interpreted as a sign by each side that they were going to win the battle. Hmmm...
These lights snuck up on a colleague of mine while in Alaska. He stood there in the snowy darkness, awe-struck, and proceeded to lay down in the snow to enjoy the spectacular light show. A dear friend of mine saw them also while in Alaska as they danced and twirled and bowed and sang in their own way above her head. She wept. To her, it was "visible grace."
Like my friends, I too started my Northern Lights trip research in Alaska and Canada and found out this trip was doable in a week, provided the Northern Lights decided to show themselves. November to April are prime "lights" spotting so I would be in the time frame. The more I researched it, Norway kept popping up as one of the best places to see the lights. Norway?! I hadn't thought of Norway but the more I looked into it, it seemed to be a perfect fit. I wold get another stamp in my passport and accomplish other experiences I didn't even realize I wanted to do like ride in a dog sled, take a cruise to the North Cape, snowmobile on a frozen fjord, and stay in an ice hotel. Brrrr!
When people hear of these arctic excursions, a twinkle in their eyes appear, I think because for most, it's something completely out-of-the-box that intrigues them, perhaps even do someday, spurring them to ask, "Is this a group tour or did you put this all together yourself?" It's a self-guided tour a travel agency put together, taking care of all the accommodations, excursions, most transportation, and meals. Impressed, they proceed to ask, "Who are you going with?" "I'm going by myself," I reply with a slight smile knowing what the reaction will be. "Oh my!" "Holy @$%&#!" "Be careful!" "Watch out for those creeps!"
I admit, I get a slight pleasure out of the reaction because it's for that reason of what motivates those comments I find it important to go - fear. Many people, especially women are afraid to be alone even if it's going to dinner by themselves. Second, many women are afraid to travel alone, especially abroad and for good reason. We as a sex have been prey far too many times which is why I take additional safety precautions. I find myself single and do not want scavenger hunt moments to pass me by because I couldn't find someone to go with.
We've not been given a spirit of fear but of power, a piece of scripture I quote frequently as part of my pep-talk when preparing to go out of my comfort zone. However, I've squeezed that piece of scripture into my suitcase to help me on my journey, along with my quick-drying long underwear, multiple fluffy, warm layers of clothing, and snow boots that can withstand temperatures of -25 degrees F.
Besides going to one of the coldest places I've ever experienced which isn't saying much since I'm from California, I most likely will experience a language barrier as the chief language is Norwegian so I'll be taking additional steps out of my comfort zone. I've been practicing important phrases though, mainly, "Do you speak English?"
In addition to the new steps I'll be taking on this adventure, there are a few things I wish to experience which made it on this trip's scavenger hunt list. They are as follows:
- See the Northern Lights and try to capture them with my camera. I've been practicing taking night shots so we'll see!
- See the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam. I have another layover in Amsterdam like last trip so instead of a canal cruise of the city, I hope to gain more insight into her story and see more of the city, minus the Red Light District. :)
- Ride and possibly drive a dog sled.
- Stand at the tip of the tippy top of Europe, the North Cape.
- Snowmobile on a frozen fjord. It'll be my first time snowmobiling so I'm excited!
- Try some of the native dishes and their orange soda.
- Listen for a Norwegian saying the expression, "Uffda." It's like saying "I'm sorry" or "Darn it." It's mainly used in the Scandinavian parts of Minnesota but I like the word and want to see if still is in use there since it supposedly came from Norway.
- Stay in an ice hotel.
- Experience God in other cultures.
- Have Starbucks. I brought my gift card so I'm ready!
Links:
The Geophysical Institute
To follow the intensity of the Northern Lights (use the Europe view for 'Tromso'). Currently the view is quiet but they're expecting a moderate show on Saturday so please pray the sky will be clear so I can see them.
Norway weather
So you can experience the briskness with me!
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Going Grad: A New Horizon of Possibilities
When the thought of grad school entered my mind, I didn't know what to expect. It's been ten years since I graduated college. During this time I've been a career woman in search of finding my passion, my purpose in life, an experience full of air-depraved highs and devastating lows. I now find myself here, re-entering the world of academia. With a full-time job and volunteer commitments eating up most of my time, the questions stands, "Will I be able to handle it?" I wasn't so sure.
The transition into school mode was much harder than anticipated. While I had made a habit of physically exercising my body, this was exercise of the mind that had me going from a slow walk to a sprint all at once. I'm not saying I'm dumb, but I was taking and processing more information than I had grown accustomed over this 10-year period which was physically exhausting!
Time grew more and more precious as I now had less of it. My normal routine was thrown out the window as I tried to fit homework and a night class into it. It wouldn't all fit. Something, at least for the time being had to give. I gave up scheduled exercise and creative writing to allow my body time to adjust and fit them in when I could.
My first class had me writing a research paper and studying for a final, tasks that consumed me. There was no room for frivolous thought or daydreams. I had to be completely focused. It felt much like the time in my UK adventure when I got lost in the English moor on Stanage Edge in the middle of nowhere or when I was standing on top of a telephone pole on a ropes course getting ready to jump to a trapeze bar which seemed impossible to reach. Much like those times, I didn't know if I would succeed but I gave my all to find out.
It's been six months since I began this graduate school adventure, now having two classes under my belt and beginning my third. My first final on Organizational Dynamics took 4 hours to complete which caused one classmate to tell the professor he was sadistic. I thought, "This is grad school. I need to suck it up." While the final was completely exhausting, I was quickly rejuvenated when my professor handed back my research paper, telling me it was "darn near publishable."
My second class involved team development which as the team leader felt at times like herding cats but was an overall rewarding experience in the friendships made. We created a skit that illustrated effective and ineffective team dynamics in an entertaining way by acting as a Hostess development team fictitiously trying to market the Twinkie internationally in Afghanistan. From experience I can say Twinkies filled with the bitter, vinegar taste of chutney is not a good combination.
I am proud to enter my third class with a cumulative grad school GPA of 4.0. While this is not a mandatory goal for me to keep, it is quite encouraging, especially in the beginning stages of re-entering academia. It's like when you're on a hike and you physically see a marker that's listed on your map. You know you're going in the right direction.
If this was not enough, recently my professor from my first class who is a lawyer, expressed to me how impressed he was by my work and contributions in his class that he thought I'd be a good lawyer. I have never thought about becoming a lawyer except when watching "Legally Blonde" when Elle Woods throws out the case clinching clue of 'ammonium thioglyocolate' and tells off her ex-boyfriend by saying, "If I'm going to be a partner in a law firm by the time I'm 30, I'm going to need a boyfriend who's not such a complete bonehead."
Secondly, he has been looking into different professional journals that would be appropriate to publish my research paper! I had been recently thinking about working on my paper to get it presentable so this comment was confirmation that I need to do this.
My eyes have just been opened to a new horizon of possibilities of where my life could go. I'm becoming aware that there's more for me out there than the safe confines I find myself in right now or what I even imagine to be possible. It's like when I reached the top of Stanage Edge, thinking I had achieved my goal, only to spy the beautiful landscape surrounding me, offering new places to explore made visible only from that vantage point.
It takes adventures such as these to dare us to dream differently, to dream divinely through God's eyes; to help us see our potential; and grasp the experiences in its wake. If I hang on tight, my life will never be the same.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." ~ Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV
The transition into school mode was much harder than anticipated. While I had made a habit of physically exercising my body, this was exercise of the mind that had me going from a slow walk to a sprint all at once. I'm not saying I'm dumb, but I was taking and processing more information than I had grown accustomed over this 10-year period which was physically exhausting!
Time grew more and more precious as I now had less of it. My normal routine was thrown out the window as I tried to fit homework and a night class into it. It wouldn't all fit. Something, at least for the time being had to give. I gave up scheduled exercise and creative writing to allow my body time to adjust and fit them in when I could.
My first class had me writing a research paper and studying for a final, tasks that consumed me. There was no room for frivolous thought or daydreams. I had to be completely focused. It felt much like the time in my UK adventure when I got lost in the English moor on Stanage Edge in the middle of nowhere or when I was standing on top of a telephone pole on a ropes course getting ready to jump to a trapeze bar which seemed impossible to reach. Much like those times, I didn't know if I would succeed but I gave my all to find out.
It's been six months since I began this graduate school adventure, now having two classes under my belt and beginning my third. My first final on Organizational Dynamics took 4 hours to complete which caused one classmate to tell the professor he was sadistic. I thought, "This is grad school. I need to suck it up." While the final was completely exhausting, I was quickly rejuvenated when my professor handed back my research paper, telling me it was "darn near publishable."
My second class involved team development which as the team leader felt at times like herding cats but was an overall rewarding experience in the friendships made. We created a skit that illustrated effective and ineffective team dynamics in an entertaining way by acting as a Hostess development team fictitiously trying to market the Twinkie internationally in Afghanistan. From experience I can say Twinkies filled with the bitter, vinegar taste of chutney is not a good combination.
I am proud to enter my third class with a cumulative grad school GPA of 4.0. While this is not a mandatory goal for me to keep, it is quite encouraging, especially in the beginning stages of re-entering academia. It's like when you're on a hike and you physically see a marker that's listed on your map. You know you're going in the right direction.
If this was not enough, recently my professor from my first class who is a lawyer, expressed to me how impressed he was by my work and contributions in his class that he thought I'd be a good lawyer. I have never thought about becoming a lawyer except when watching "Legally Blonde" when Elle Woods throws out the case clinching clue of 'ammonium thioglyocolate' and tells off her ex-boyfriend by saying, "If I'm going to be a partner in a law firm by the time I'm 30, I'm going to need a boyfriend who's not such a complete bonehead."
Secondly, he has been looking into different professional journals that would be appropriate to publish my research paper! I had been recently thinking about working on my paper to get it presentable so this comment was confirmation that I need to do this.
My eyes have just been opened to a new horizon of possibilities of where my life could go. I'm becoming aware that there's more for me out there than the safe confines I find myself in right now or what I even imagine to be possible. It's like when I reached the top of Stanage Edge, thinking I had achieved my goal, only to spy the beautiful landscape surrounding me, offering new places to explore made visible only from that vantage point.
It takes adventures such as these to dare us to dream differently, to dream divinely through God's eyes; to help us see our potential; and grasp the experiences in its wake. If I hang on tight, my life will never be the same.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." ~ Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV
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