Only six days remain in Oslo. The feeling is bittersweet. We are excited to return state-side to family and friends, but will miss those we've befriended here in Norway. And although we've had many fine experiences, there is still so much to see and do in this part of the world. In retrospect, ten months is not long enough. Still, we are ready to return home and readjust - to comfort and reality.
We've made certain to make the most of our final days. Since our last blog, we've visited: Alicante, Spain (again); Gothenburg, Sweden; and Halden, Norway. On May 17, we celebrated Norway's national holiday. May 17 is a very special and respected day for Norwegians, and many wear traditional costumes from the area in which they are from. Women's costumes - handmade and embellished with embroidery and silver - average around $5000! The dresses themselves are art, and are made to last for generations. (See pics.) May 17 for us began with a traditional breakfast at one friend's home, followed a parade in front of the palace (where the royal family stood for four hours waving to parade participants), and ended with wine on another friend's veranda. The sun was shining and everyone was happy...Truly a perfect and memorable day!
We depart Oslo on May 31, arriving in Philly later that day. David's father will pick us up from the airport, and we will stay with his folks in NJ through June 11. We will then travel south to Greenville, SC and stay with my parents until we can return to our home in Columbia in July.
Thank you for following our blog and journey, and please pray for our safe return home. We look forward to seeing you all real soon!!!
(Note: The title of this entry is a line from a song. I sing it all the time to Evie and it makes us both smile!)
