Cold, dark, and foggy... these are three words that I would use to describe Norway during this time of year. Now I know that I make it sound dreary and dull, but in reality I am finding out that it is far from it! With winter beginning to set in, the days are getting shorter and shorter and the weather is colder and colder. It is light for about 8 hours per day in the southern part of the country, where I am staying now. It will continue to get darker as the days pass. The temperature is about a steady -2 degrees Celsius during the day and colder at night. There is no snow in this area yet.

   Now, many of these things sound negative and quite uninviting, but really it helps make you appreciate the little things in life. For example, being outside in the cold or even looking out the windows make you very thankful that you have a place to live and warm clothes to wear. Also, after spending four hours hiking in the forest when it is freezing and wet, you really begin to appreciate a nice hot cup of tea or cocoa and a warm shower when you come back inside! I have recently had this experience when I went hiking for a school trip with my host sister, Ingvild, and her class! It was a lot of fun to be outdoors and experience the nature even in the cold weather. I also enjoyed being with the kids and watching them having so much fun, regardless of the fact that it was freezing! In addition, because of the frigid weather, you try to stay inside as much as possible and this gives you lots of quality time with family and friends!

   Winter can often be a depressing and gloomy time of year and it is easy to be in a bad mood. But I have experienced that most Norwegians realize that they cannot change the weather, so they have learned to make the most out of the situation! Many people have get togethers with family and friends, there is always lots of great food, and I particularly enjoy the fire constantly burning in the wood stove and having candles lit all over the house! People here also enjoy a variety of winter sports such as skiing, both down hill and cross country, and ice skating! It is inspiring to see their positive attitudes!

   Norwegians do not celebrate Thanksgiving on the same day or in the same way that Americans do. Being an American, it will be strange for me not to be celebrating the holiday with family this year. But I am very thankful to all the wonderful people I have met for helping show me how to truly be thankful for all of our many blessings and to appreciate each other! My time as an IFYE is growing short, and I am certainly going to miss all the special people that I have met in the past 6 months! But I will forever be thankful that they have come into my life and blessed me with their love and friendship! I will also be coming back to visit!

   I would like to wish you all a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING! Enjoy your time with your loved ones and may you truly be thankful for all of your many blessings! I know I am! Take care and see you soon! Love always- Martha