Haugesund, Norway
Remember how I said it was cold yesterday, well today was even colder. And you know what, tomorrow is forecasted to be even colder still. We are bundling up and dressing in layers everyday right now. We were up this morning and had a light breakfast of fruit, tea and muffins from the Neptune lounge. We met our excursion group in the Main Stage at 9:15am. This morning we had another walking tour in the village of Avaldsnes. It is recognized as Norway’s oldest kingdom. This site housed St. Olav’s Church, built in 1250, a Viking History Center, and a Viking Farm. There was much to see and learn about today. We learned about the history of the Norwegians, about the folklore that inspires this region, and the monarchy that ruled here over the years. We walked quite a bit to and from the Viking Farm where they have recreated structures in the spirit of the Viking life and now show how they would have lived their daily lives. There was a group of middle school students here today on a field trip all dressed up in period costumes “living” the life of Viking village. It was cute to see and interact with them enjoying their day. Did I mention it was freezing cold. When the wind came through it was bone chilling. We were dressed appropriately, but our faces and noses were definitely red and chilled. For those of you who don’t know I have a bit of an obsession with the movie Gladiator and Russel Crowe. Our guide today looked much like an older Russel Crowe. He told us he has even been mistaken for him at the airport by the paparazzi. I told him that the song from the movie was the ringer on my cell phone and then he shared his dog’s name was Maximus, and then I told him that was the name of my car. The best part of the day was when he mistook me for Megan’s sister. He was so apologetic and I told him that, that was the best compliment he could pay me that no apology was necessary. We were back on the ship by about 2:00pm today and we needed to warm up. They served us hot chocolate as we got back onto the ship. Megan went and got some tea and then took a hot bath. I took one right after her and enjoyed warming up my soul. I had acupuncture this afternoon as well and am happy to say my body is feeling better. We are both still blowing our noses like crazy. Not sure where all that comes from, but the cold weather definitely doesn’t help. Tonight we went to the a specially prepared Indonesian themed dinner party at the Pinnacle Grill. Our dear friend and employee Tina was integral in working with the chefs to help come up with and execute a delicious menu. It was a fantastic meal and we had the honor of dining with our very good friends Gail and Marty. With all the ports we have had lately we haven’t had much time to see them and it was really nice getting to catch up and spend some special time with them. Tonight we are headed north and into another fjord where will be protected from another incoming storm. The weather is expected to get even colder tomorrow and we will definitely get off the ship prepared for another outdoor excursion. We are looking forward to another fun adventure tomorrow. We are snuggled in for the night and are looking forward to a good nights sleep. I heard the weather in California is supposed to be getting warmer and I am looking forward to sharing that all with you soon enough. Wishing a great start to your week and a blessed day.
Live Vicariously Through Debra 