October-fest

October in Oslo has been much like September. The days continue to shorten, and James Ryan is obsessed with knowing whether it's 'getting dark outside' - as that means it's time for bed!

This month we visited Tromso, located north of the Arctic Circle. It was very interesting to see the differences from Oslo - as well as anywhere else we've ever been. The climate is cold & wet, and the terrain is rocky mountains - covered with moss and scattered trees. (I mention the moss because it is very thick & cushiony!) While there we had the privilege of seeing the Northern Lights. They were like wisps of clouds - some with a greenish hue - dancing through beams of light. They are beautiful and eerie at the same time. I imagine they have been mistaken for poltergeists a time or two! BTW...Our gracious hosts served us moose! Moose in Tromso are common like deer in the US. Unfortunately, we did not get to see one (alive). :o(

Quick family update...

• JR is still wild as a buck! (I swear...He's like having twins!) He is equally challenging and rewarding - as well as very funny! His favorite things are pirates, dinosaurs, and transportation. He said he wanted a 'digger' and a 'turning' (moving) dump truck. I told him he'd have to wait for Christmas. Then he said he wanted to take the red bus (public transportation) to go see Christmas. haha He's now (im)patiently awaiting the arrival of Christmas! Until then, we look forward to Halloween - when he will be a pirate!
• Evie is golden. Crawling everywhere and even trying to stand! She will be a ballerina for Halloween. (I can't resist showing off her chubby thighs!)
• David is busy visiting schools and fulfilling his US work responsibilities. He also presented a paper at a teaching conference in Lithuania a few weeks ago. On Wednesday nights, he enjoys playing basketball with a group of guys. He's still watching (mid-night) Gamecock football - and they continue to surprise and disappoint him!
• I'm basically try to keep up with everyone else! I'm also looking forward to my brother visiting next week, followed by a trip to sunny Spain!