USA

I can't believe how fast 6 + weeks has gone. It is so nice to be back in the states and I am saddened thinking that it will be about 2 years before we return again. Things change so quickly here and I figure that when we come back again, things will have changed quite dramatically again, especially in the small town where I am from. However, after being gone for so long, I realize all of the things I am thankful for living in a small, European town. I had always thought that things moved in slow motion in Norway but I can see that as I get older, this is something that i actually am starting to appreciate. I also appreciate the fact that my kids can walk to school on their own, that the traffic is very minimal and that our family of 5 can get by with just one car.

We did see The Police (awesome!) and spent the weekend in beautiful Portland, OR. We have also spent time crabbing, shopping and visiting, things which I have now had my fill of.

My blog has been somewhat neglected this summer but I am glad that I took some time away from my everyday life. I have used the summer productively and plan to get home and start the fall with some new art and endeavors.

Wishing you a happy summer so far. See you in the autumn...

happy birthday America

For the first time in years, we are here in the US ready to celebrate the 4th. I have such fond memories of this time and am excited for my kids to experience some of the thrill of letting off fireworks. Of course, most of the excitement comes around the time that we hit the Indian Reservation, scouting out the best deal and trying to find the biggest, loudest explosive money can buy. I could actually skip this part and sit inside with the little one, but I am assuming that the older ones (including hubby), would be disappointed with just a few pop its and sparklers. Now, after $70, I imagine we will be busy for several hours tonight.

I have had a little down time the past weeks after arriving. Nice to not have to think of my domestic duties, emails or any other business affairs while I am away. If I owe you a mail, I am getting to it, just trying not to spend my days on the computer and focusing mainly on the kids outdoors.

Wishing all of my fellow Americans a very happy and safe 4th!