Arctic Mum Blog

Annual Book Circle Dinner: Arctic Food

2012-01-29T11:01:00.000-08:00

Book:

Vendela Vida: Let the Northern Lights Erase Your Name. We liked it! I feel Vendela is a friend, we could have a glass of wine and talk about our favourite films. Did you know mine is The Hours? I suspect hers is too (read the book).

Food:

Dried lamb with cheese and hollandaise
Deep fried cod tongues with stewed onion
Reindeer with a potato terrine
Pannacotta and passion fruit sorbet

Drink on the pub:

Pitcher of San Miguel (not very Arctic is it)

Enjoy your week!

The Arctics On Ice

2012-01-28T05:06:00.001-08:00

I aired my ice skates today. Last seen around the time Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan were fighting (probobly reason I bought them). Perfect conditions on the pond, and look - the kicksled can also be used as a learn-to-skate-tool!

Tonight is the annual book circle dinner. I'll show you the menu soon!

Enjoy your weekend!

Arctic Mum Goes Northern Lights Chasing

2012-01-22T12:28:00.001-08:00

Last night I was on a Northern Lights mission. I wanted to take amazing photographs of the green fire to show you all. Oh well, easier said than done.

I started off with surveying the situation at the pond at 8 pm. I chatted to a Dutch couple from the B&B across the road, and they enlightened me that the Northern Lights was particularly strong last night, number 5(?) So in this case: Don't ask the locals.

After researching on the internet how to capture the light, I brought my camera and tripod at ten pm. The Dutch were lying under some trees, God knows why - to avoid light pollution? (again, don't ask the locals) So I stumbled around on the ice, trying to find a place to shoot.

The sky exploded in green while I tried to focus - nope, I tried different shutterspeed and ISOs. In the end I was desperate and ran home to google more (Thank God for internet opening hours), I ran back and the fire went and on but I just didn't manage to capture it through the lense(s). So this one is all I came home with.

Did I mention it was cold last night? Yes it was. Freezing cold.

You should be rewarded for effort, right?

Happy Sun Day!

2012-01-21T07:10:00.000-08:00

At noon we dressed well and walked the three minutes to the pond. We met neighbours and tourists with cameras. And we met the sun.

How can I express how it felt to see the sun after two months of darkness? Most of all I felt alive, moved and present in the world. Like I'm part of something big. Like we all are.

You really feel the change of seasons here. I wouldn't want anything else.

Are any of you on Instagram? Come find me! I'm Arcticmum.

My Calling: No-knead bread

2012-01-17T14:51:00.000-08:00

As you know I don't like baking, and I have to admit my friend Bente makes all my cookies for Christmas.

But now, now I'm saved by the no-knead bread: just whisk the ingredients together, leave on the kitchen counter for 20 hours, fold(!) the dough and throw in the oven. Minimum effort, maximum result.

I now make good looking bread like a normal person.

Congratulations Inner West Mum who won my sister's giveaway!

Winter Around My House

2012-01-10T11:44:00.000-08:00

Me and Anna love winter walks around our house. Do you see what I see lurking behind the mountains?

(I love the funky 1962 terrace houses)

The pond is dressed for winter. In the autumn the pond was more colourful.

Last chance to win a beautiful piece of jewellery made by my sister

I hope you're coping with the transition into 2012!

Polar Night Crash Course: Last lesson

2012-01-06T12:35:00.000-08:00

Lesson 5: Make sure you have something to look forward to. Small or big

I look forward to:

* Sopranos season 5 and 6 (I'm so late to this party)
* Holiday planning: We're house exchanging in Bretagne!
* Dinner at fancy restaurant with bookcircle
* The return of the sunbun
* The Filmfestival (if manages to get Anna's sleep sorted out)

As we speak it is only fourteen days to the sun is back. I've been known to be more impatient. This year I'm enjoying the last period of the magical time.

Because Polar Night is simply beautiful.

Have you not entered my sister's giveaway of gorgeous jewellery? Still time.

My Sister The Jewellery Maker

2012-01-01T13:00:00.000-08:00

My sister Elisabeth has jumped into the unknown and sets out to be a full time jewellery maker in Denmark where she lives.

She uses old norwegian techniques, like sami braiding. I don't know anyone else who braids in silver. Do you? She knits and crochets in silver and gold too, using pearls and stones as well. It's not just design: Every single piece is unique and handmade with love.

To celebrate her dream come true, the Arctic sisters cooperate on a giveaway until the 15th of January: One random of you can win a piece, by leaving a comment telling me which collection you like the best from her website: Nina, Alise, Lilli or Susanne.

I know you appreciate good crafts! (PS: if you're in Copenhagen, visit store Unika and you may find her there, she looks like me).She's also on
Facebook

Good luck!

Whatever happened to Ludo?

2011-12-28T11:29:00.000-08:00

Ask the iKids. They certainly don't play it on Christmas parties anymore.

Happy New Year, friends!

Don't forget my giveaway of gorgeous H&M baby clothes!

Holiday update with H&M Giveaway

2011-12-27T10:36:00.000-08:00

How's your holiday going? We're taking a break from all the heavy, traditional food with a spanish omelette. (not so Arctic-ic is it)

This 5month old baby loves turnip mash. But she's not very fond of sleeping in the evenings. Unless there's a dummy (read:me) in sight.

I'm excited to host a giveaway for H&M's new clothing line for babies, concious newborn - just about to hit the online stores! The clothes are made from organic and recycled materials, free from chemical additives. They are in French nostalgic style. I love them for not doing the pink and blue thing this time. It's not excactly unisex, but they're getting there.

Do you know anyone excpecting who deserve a suprise-gift from H&M, or just yourself? For entering, leave a comment before Monday the 2nd of January, and I'll pick two winners! A shout out on Twitter and Facebook gives you extra tickets, so let me know:)

Good luck

Congratulations Litlo&Kalen and Kelleyn with winning!

Happy Christmas!

2011-12-23T13:43:00.000-08:00

We have decorated the tree, and the children can't wait to see what tomorrow will bring. We'll watch the film Three nuts for Cinderella, take the kicksled to the churchyard to see my mum's grave, eat pinnekjøtt and open gifts.

I wish you all a good Christmas. I have met so many friends through blogging - from all over the world. Warm wishes to you and big hugs from the top of the map!

The Lutefisk Tutorial: A Rerun

2011-12-21T08:16:00.000-08:00

Time for a rerun of last year's lutefisk dinner!

I think they do their own versions of this dish in the US, with lefse. Have you had it? We don't do the lefse thing, and people like my father are puritans and adds only green peas and potatoes. The fish should be in the center, right?

Or maybe not. After all the fish had been dried and lyed. Sounds horrible. But I like!

I'm excited to see if my 6YO and 4YO like it too. They can be adventurous if in the right mood. Maybe I should present it as jelly with a fish taste?

Looking forward to Christmas now!

A Post on Christmas

2011-12-17T06:04:00.000-08:00

How are you doing with your holiday preparations? We've been baking a little bit, gingerbread and cookies. But we're eating it just as fast. Sorry for any potential guests...(I have emergency cookies).

Christmas means time spent with your loved ones. You'll find us outdoors to catch some light in the blue hour every day, often on a kicksled. We have a low-ambitions Christmas.

But I think of all the children who dread the holidays because alcohol abuse and domestic violence increase at this time. I think of lonely children. The feeling of "togetherness" is heavy, but no one is as alone as alone at Christmas. There is also the pressure of baking, of decorating, of buying. I think children want time and security from parents more than gifts (even though a Hello Kitty computer is more wanted in this household).

We'll make something yummy to eat - I'll come back on that (more lighthearted) subject!

Polar Night Crash Course: Lesson four

2011-12-09T13:14:00.000-08:00

Lesson four: Team up!

By no means you should be alone at this time of year, it's just too dark. And the sun-waiting-time is so much shorter when you spend it with others.

Team up with someone: a friend, the neighbour, family, your work mate, a running buddy, a stranger, a dog, the internet, a glass of red (just one glass mind you. Ok then - two).

I have teamed up with a group of women with babies, for long walks and baby talk that could not be of interest for anyone else (food, teeth, sleep. Sleep, don't get me started on that subject). Love it!

As you can see from the view to our big, small town: Polar Night can be beautiful too. Even if it's one of those days when it doesn't really get light at all.

P.S Did you know we have a butter crisis here? I may just make my own as very easy apparently. I've heard rumours they used to do it at home back in the days...

Bright Lights, Big City

2011-12-07T11:17:00.000-08:00

My favourite spot on my walk to kindergarten: Standing on the top of the hill I get the big city feeling. Rio. London. Calcutta. The bright lights.

In reality it's just the hospital and the university. And 70.000 in the Arctic.

But for a moment I'm somewhere else.

Good luck with your Christmas preparations. Just take deep breaths, you will survive.

P.S: These guys (one of them is my daughter's friend's dad) on the South Pole Expedition hope to get home by the 24th.

Polar Night Crash Course: Lesson three

2011-11-29T13:38:00.000-08:00

Lesson three: slow down.

It's impossible not to notice the changes the Polar Night does to your body. The pace is different, there's no way you can rush. So you better slow down and be kind to yourself. I guess life is easier when you accept the things you cannot change. Like that it's dark no matter what.

Make a cup of tea. Watch American Pickers, my latest obsession.

This is just not the time to start new projects (ask me what I'm doing in the end of May - I'm turning the house upside down).

Do not act crazy and clean the windows for Christmas. Light a candle and no one can tell.

On the down side I have a baby who has trouble knowing if it's day or night. I try to tell her she should be sleeping in the evenings.

Have a good weekend, friends!

Children Can be Wise

2011-11-28T06:37:00.000-08:00

My daughter woke up with a sore throut this morning. She convinced us she had to stay home from school to get well. She celebrated with jumping on the coach.

I suspect it was the prospect of baby sister cuddling and bread making that made her so ill.

Not fallin' for that one again.

We've lit the first advent candle. Have a great week!

Polar Night Crash Course: Lesson two

2011-11-19T13:06:00.000-08:00

Lesson two: Keep a regular lifestyle: eat healthy, like fish as pictured above from local shop (I pass the liver, but you shouldn't - it's good for you).

Go to bed at the same time every night, get up at the same time in the morning.

Excercise.

I know, I sound like I'm ninety.

But keeping a steady pattern works, and I truly believe that it helps against Polar Night depression. Do not for all sake go to sleep in the middle of the day, you'll wake up not knowing if it's day or night. And your body will be even more confused than normally this time of year.

Only 58 days to sun is back. Yay!

(PS: You should check the comments in the last post for more vitamin tips!)

Polar Night Crash Course: Lesson 1

2011-11-19T08:24:00.000-08:00

Today was the last day of the sun. I'll be ready when it returns the 21st of January 2012. Ready as can be.

But in the meantime I will stay sane (ok, fairly) and happy while embracing the Polar Night.

And now you can too. Not easy you say? Easy peasy with Arctic Mum crash course in five parts!

Lesson 1: Make sure you get some daylight.

Many work places let you take a walk during the day, if not make up a doctor's appointment or the dentist, not leg waxing as we don't do that this time of year. Do not skip this task.Otherwise you'll be a zombie soon, and your mental state will be frayed at best.

Soaking up some light every day will keep you from hitting the internet and ordering holidays in Hawaii or Florida, that will only hurt your wallet deeply and leave you in despair.

Ok?

Lesson two soon. Have a good week, U lucky people with the sun!

Three days: Three cushions

2011-11-12T12:23:00.000-08:00

Three days - three cushions from vintage fabric.

Three days of taking care of daughter suffering from chicken pox and a growing iPaddiction.

Don't think she'll ever learn to use a pc keyboard. That's how the future goes.

Hapy weekend to you. I have my sister visiting from Denmark and that's a bliss!

Bye Bye Camera Light

2011-11-09T09:03:00.000-08:00

I was walking to pick up my daughters at school and kindergarten, and by every step it got darker.

The season of disastrous camera light in the Arctic has started. I hope you don't mind, and stick with me to the light is back?

Next up is a Polar Night Tutorial: A keep -sane-and-happy-in-the-dark-how-to.

Big hugs to everyone stopping by!

It's D Time!

2011-11-01T10:40:00.000-07:00

The light is almost gone, soon Polar Night will be over us. That means it's vitamin D Time for the Arctics: We get a bottle of cod liver oil (with lemon, mind you, takes the taste almost away) and enjoy ourselves.

Did I mention I've started making cushions from retro fabric? I like people with a past, and fabric too. I made the green one from a 70s curtain, it's been a witness to bowl-drinking parties, Roger Whittaker listening (at least that's what my parents listened to) and cigarette smoking in crazy coloured dresses while serving fondue, kids who had to watch themselves,(yes, I saw the brilliant The Ice Storm) while the women fought for equality, I have no idea what the men did.

(what's really in that cod liver oil?)

Alone at the Flea Market

2011-10-30T06:31:00.000-07:00

I went to the flea market all by myself Saturday morning. Such a treat, but when there's no one to practice cencorship I drag too much home. These were the best items: Jug, plate, cup and saucer from Stavangerflint "Sera" by Inger Waage, a small bowl from coloured glass. And the cookie tin for the Norwegian 1994 World Cup soccer team, a tournement we haven't been in since. I love their hair, looks like they went crazy with the highlights.

Have a good week! I've started to make cushions from retro fabric. I'll show you very soon!

Am shearing these at Flea Market Finds. and Apron Thrift Girl.

Boob vs Dad

2011-10-24T12:17:00.000-07:00

In Norway we're debating if mothers should reduce breastfeeding at six month in order to let dad in on the scene. We are reluctant to share more of our one year parental leave with dad, and we use the boob as the excuse. Even if babies have food from six months, and there's no stopping us from returning to work. I agree, we should let dad take more of the responsibility!

But I don't live as I preach: I've grabbed as much as the parental leave as I can without breaking the household peace, and I plan to breastfeed as long as I can. (at least until me and Anna start having conversations about it)

What do you think? Do we need to go to "extreme" lengths to secure equality between the sexes when caring for kids?

Home Exchange for the Summer

2011-10-22T07:23:00.000-07:00

We're (read: me) planning next summer's holiday, and hopefully a dream will come true: Home Exchange. I've wanted to do it for years, and finally we have the space.

The idea is appealing: You arrive to a house with toys (yay!), bicycles, bunkbed and perhaps a highchair. You get to explore an area outside the tourist tracks.

Everything based on trust. Isn't that wonderful?

I hope a family wants to come to the Arctic and our home. We have spectacular nature, 24/7 daylight, great for kids and a vibrant city. I guess I have to enlighten the fact that 3 degrees celsius in July does happen...but not often!

We hope to end up in the southwest of France, an area I know from pre-family times. But maybe we'll be surprised and go somewhere else. What do you reckon, will we make it?

My Favourite Activity

2011-10-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

That's walking my daughter to school. It takes ten minutes, hand in hand. The walk goes through a forest path and along the pond, and we talk about different things. Like the letter A.

The one that's not walking takes second daughter to daycare by car, while third daughter cries in the back. She's not happy to be woken up for this. Afterwards we meet up halvway and I drive Arctic Dad to work.

The logistics. The magic word for people with children. How do you sort out yours?

Congratulations to giveaway winners Heather Joy and Crista!

Thrifted Recently

2011-10-12T14:19:00.000-07:00

Gustavsberg plate and Danish plastic box from Garant.

Figgjo souvenir plate from the 60s with picture of Sami people. A bit kitchy and slightly political incorrect today.

I've wanted a stepping stool for the kitchen sometime. By Swedish Rörens and orginally meant to help you out with the ironing. And I never iron anything. Also handy for looking up hidden cookies in cupboard.

Shearing these at Flea Market Findsand Apron Thrift Girl.

First Snow on Ground: A Teaser

2011-10-10T01:51:00.000-07:00

I don't feel ready, but here we go: First snow on the ground. It's just a winter teaser, it'll go away and come back to stay.

Luckily I have got myself a cool but warm coat from Benetton. And I can wear sunglasses for another month. Yay! (and now I don't have to remove more leaves)

Still a few days left to win my plastic fantastic giveaway.

Have a good week everyone.

Catching the Garden Bug

2011-10-06T12:46:00.000-07:00

Do you remember how terrified the garden first made me? Now I think I'm one my way of becoming a garden goddess: We've caught the garden bug, and googling like maniacs to find out what to do before winter kicks in.

Removing leaves is a surprisingly fulfilling activity (but slightly Sisyphean, and I look like I've given up in second picture).

Autumn and the leaves on the ground makes me listen to Joni Mitchell's Blue. Same for you?

Have a good weekend! You'll find us in the garden. And don't forget my giveaway!

Thrifted giveaways in bright 70s orange

2011-09-30T13:13:00.000-07:00

I'm cleanin' out my recent flea market closet. Will you help me?

One reader wins the vintage plastic set of salt'n pepper and sugar bowl. It's labeled Embee producs Great Britain, and I think it'll look very cool on the camping table. Or add a retro vibe to your kitchen.

Another reader wins the 70s clock from West German factory Baduf. It's working and ticking happily along.

Leave a comment and tell me which one you want! Make sure to leave contact info. I'll draw two random winners on October 15th. If you'd like to follow me here, on Bloglovin', on Twitter or spread the word on your blog or other places, I'll send you some good Arctic vibes too (Am allergic to over-administration, so keeping it simple).

Good luck!

Linking up to Flea Market Finds and Apron Thrift Girl.

Snow on Mountain Tops

2011-09-30T05:49:00.000-07:00

Same view from a few weeks ago, different colour: The mountain tops in the Arctic are now covered by snow. In a few weeks it will reach the ground too. Just better be prepared, I tell myself.

A giveaway of the thrifted kind coming your way over the weekend! In bright orange to make autumn last longer.

Have a good weekend!

Arctic Mum's Boot Camp

2011-09-25T12:42:00.000-07:00

Every Tuesday ten Arctic new mums meet up for Boot camp, completely voluntarily. Our trainer is a maniac. Last week I couldn't walk for two days.

Today she made us run up and down that hill five times. She watches the babies that's not sleeping while she yells at us. I secretly hoped I had to nurse Anna just to get a break.

No chance.

Don't call me tomorrow. I probobly won't even make it out of bed.

Autumn By The Lake

2011-09-23T01:39:00.000-07:00

We're so lucky to live next to the pond. We use it all year: walks, running, bicycling, ice skating and cross country skiing.

The air is cold and the colours are yellow now. But can't think of anything more refreshing these days than taking Anna for a walk around the pond. When my father arrives to visit from the capital this weekend, we'll be walking there too.

Have a good weekend!

A Bucket of Cowberries

2011-09-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

Armed with berry pickers we hit the cabin trip sans children. Except for Anna of course. Where Boob goes Anna goes.

We had better weather last year. But who can resist a bucket of cowberries (or lingonberries)? Or roast lamb, wine, cake and laughs. And the smell of the September forest is simply the best.

Have a great week! And thank you for kitchen comments, I can reveal to you that it's less tidy now.

Housetour: My Kitchen

2011-09-13T12:17:00.000-07:00

The kitchen is finally done. I now realize it looks like my old kitchen, so I guess white and grey are my favourites. It feels good to add some colours, a yellow clock, a red toaster, a turqouise pin board, an orange plate. The floor is our best buy, it's simply vinyl. You should try that at home.

It's been an ordeal. IKEA sent us half the kitchen wrong. Twice. We live 2000 km away from the nearest warehouse, so we can't use the dinner coupons (!) they offered us as an excuse. No Billy's will come near this house in the future, if Arctic Dad is to decide (don't tell him he's not).

The cookbooks are stored in the cupboard. Should I take that as a sign? You know I'm not so into cooking or baking, but I'm not worried. Blogland is full of those who are.

My father's old office chair from the 60s is a favourite item in the kitchen, as well as my grandmother's serving plate. We're getting a real cat next summer.

Looking forward to the weekend, cabin trip with bookcircle best friends. Hope to see the Northern Lights in the wild.

See you soon!

An Arctic Indian Summer

2011-09-05T02:08:00.000-07:00

We've been enjoying Indian Summer in the Arctic! It's very unusual, but I'm not complaining. It gives strenght to meet the winter that arrives in October.

Did you know that grey is the new black for playhouses? With blue windows.

Flea market find Luxo lamp for the desk. Did you also get childhood flashbacks just now?

Ten years since 9/11. Like everyone else I remember what I did that day.

I hope you have a wonderful week! Photos from finally finished kitchen coming soon.

I Choose September

2011-08-31T02:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's allowed to jump on the sofa.

My favourite month is September. Always been.

My birthday.
Starting up something new: A course. A book. Or raising a brand new person.
The clear Arctic air that makes you feel alive.
September by Woody Allen. A hurrah to complicated relationships.
The month before Boring October with first snow.
Oh the colours!

What's September to you?

The vintage desk for the schoolgirl

2011-08-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

The weekends are so hectic I can hardly turn around and breathe. I know, I have three children now. And it's even my own choice. I contributed!

Like every schoolgirl she needs a desk. Being from the flea and the 70s is only a bonus (the mother said).

Old navigation maps are fun, right? This one is from a group of islands along our long, long coast. Am thinking bedroom wall.

More blackcurrant juice production before autumn sets in for real. And Anna, she's a princess.

Have a good week, all of you!

Am sharing this post on Flea Market Finds.

On Names: Anna

2011-08-25T05:26:00.000-07:00

Petra, Laura, Nora, Malou, Björk, Erle, Lovise, Moa and Vilma were some of the names we tried. But they weren't right.

Anna is.

I looked at her on Friday, and suddenly I realised that's her name. Maybe because my grandmother's name is Anna, and that she has her nose (!). Or simply because it's a beautiful and strong name.

Anna has a cold already, at five weeks. But what can you do when the four year old makes her suck on her nose...

My six year old loves starting school. She's so grown up all of a sudden.

The leaves in the garden are going yellow. I feel they just became green.

I hope you'll have a good weekend, I plan to do som flea marketing!

Blackcurrants for the weekend

2011-08-21T00:56:00.000-07:00

The weekends are a whirlwind of children running around, nursing in between, tidying and doing the best to keep up the domestic service industry (without a domestic outburst).

We picked blackcurrant from the garden, making juice. I feel a bit 50s housewife doing just that - I guess it's a generation thing to have an ironic distance towards it. But it's so satisfying!

The annual garden party for my book circle was held inside. We're in the Arctic after all, and it's getting colder.

My six year old starts school tomorrow for the first time! Note to self: skip mascara. Pictures will come and also a name for our baby.

You should watch the beautiful and moving Memorial ceremony for the terrorist victims 22/7. It'll make you cry and hug the ones you love.

See you very soon!

Last Weekend in the Sun

2011-08-15T05:19:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful weekend, enjoying the last summer spree:

* Playhouse in the garden finally up! It will be painted in a colour we all can agree on (but not pink, I have two votes).

* Blueberry picking. I love the forest, especially with a sea view. Now our blackcurrants are ready too.

* Waffles in the sun.

Still no name...but soon!

Thrifting At End Of Summer

2011-08-11T01:56:00.000-07:00

The Bjorn Wiinblad plate with the August theme is quite rare I think. I like it.

Two lamps I plan to fix up with modern shades. Bye bye Arctic light - the evenings are darker.

The West German vase is ugly in a pretty way (or vice versa), me thinks.

Previous house owners left us with this 60's lamp. Love the blue colour.

We're promised a last desperate summer show off this weekend, before autumn kicks in next week. That means a last desperate barbeque as well.

Note to self: Stock up on rainclothes and fleeze for children. And tea.

Make sure you help other women on Africas Horn. I know I will.

Am shearing these over at Flea Market Finds. and Apron Thrift Girl.

Housetour: Aslaug's Vintage Vibe

2011-08-04T13:24:00.000-07:00

My friend Aslaug lives in a gorgeous flat with husband and two kids, in a building with a strong community feel. A bit hippie-like they have dinners together, share tools and a common garden. I love it!

Aslaug works with literature, and she's a fellow thrifter (yay!) with a special eye for tin boxes. You can tell her place is packed with wonderful finds.

The flat has some odd angles that makes it challenging to furnish. But when you have a too-good-to-be-true father who actually built bookshelves, benches and a bed - that's just fun.

Please come inside!

You must check out the rest of her house.

(I've used up all my friends with cool places now. I need some more friends - and their houses too.)

Earth Calling Daily Life

2011-07-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

The holidays are over. And so is summer. We have a schoolgirl this fall, and a baby that is called new names every day. We spend some time on it. After six months the government is fed up by waiting and just hands you one.

Ah, the transitions.

Me? I get to hang out with my little beautiful creature until May next year, when papa takes over for another 12 weeks. Learn more about the parental leave system in Norway.

I hope there's still summer where you are!

Life Goes On

2011-07-26T12:13:00.000-07:00

Isn't it strange how life goes on no matter what? My girls jump on their trampoline. We cuddle our baby all evening. We make rhubarb juice from the garden. We try to learn how to bicycle. We have fishcakes for dinner. We feed the ducks at the lake.

But the sadness in the midst of it all.

Over 70 died. Most of them were teenagers, our finest ones. Young political activists, talented idealists and changemakers. Many from my region were killed, they were 18-19 years old. The older tried to protect the younger, and they didn't survive.

I hope we will recover. But we'll never forget them. And we'll keep loving eachother.

A Brand New Baby in the House

2011-07-23T12:40:00.000-07:00

Tuesday morning she came, and she was in a hurry! 40 minutes after we arrived to the hospital she was there, as beautiful as can be.

Friday we were back home, and my girls are over the moon and all over her. She seems to be a calm and happy baby, sleeping and eating most of the time. She finds it hard to stay awake for more than half an hour. But that's when all of us gather around and gets to know her.

We haven't decided on a name yet, but I'll let you know as soon as we have landed. This household may have to debate a little.

Our happiness comes not for granted. Please send thoughts to the victims at the youth camp in Oslo. It's unbelievable and difficult to grasp that this has happened, and it will cast a shadow on all our lives.

....And we're in!

2011-07-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

First meal! Tomato soup.

We're in. Baby's not out. Just as planned. Of course things are a little bit chaotic: IKEA sent us lots of wrong kitchen stuff, toilet seat's not delivered yet, infact the whole bathroom interiour is wrong. And where are the screws to the bunk bed?

But those are details, and I made it to the cinema (a long time to next time) and saw Bridesmaids. It was so much fun, like two hours of epidural.

Dorit won my giveaway! I love her blog from The Faroe Island.

Four days to due date. Think I'll go past it a bit.

A Field Trip to the Edge of the World

2011-07-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

My friend Camilla, the marine biologist/crafter behind the blog Skrekk & Gru has agreed to share some photos from her recent field trip to the edge of the world. Yes, that's what you can call 78 degrees north: Next up is the North Pole.

This is where the Arctic Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean meet and lots of exciting things happening biology wise. The wild life is rich; seals, dolphins and polar beers who spend the winter in the area.

Camilla and her fellow scientists from all around the world were investigating the Arctic carbon cycle and the impact of plankton.

That is a polar beer mama and her two cubs. Looks cute, but don't go any closer!

Last giveway day soon. Hurry up!

A Pre Foggy Giveaway

2011-07-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

This is all my brain has managed the last couple of weeks: knitting kitchen cloths while holding feet high and watching DVDs (still shaken after faboulous fantastic I Am love). I think the nursing fog has started already. The nesting sure has.

I'll tell you a secret: You'll never get any kitchen cloths this good. They're soft cotton, washed at 60 degrees in machine. You'll never turn back when you start using them, and will be knitting them yourself before you know it. Or get pregnant.

To win this pair of brown and blue cloths: leave a comment before Wednesday the 13th of July. Simple as that!

Things Ain't Cooking In My Kitchen

2011-07-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

We're not cooking here yet. But maybe next week? Trying to keep morale high, as one should in times of stress. Main goal: not having a baby before we're in.

I have a giveaway coming up very soon!

In the meantime: Check out music video of local band Violet Road: These are the colours of the Arctic Summer.

Have a good weekend!

I Will Become a Garden Goddess.

2011-06-24T02:07:00.000-07:00

I'm like a fish on land when it comes to gardening: I don't have a clue what to do there. Eat the plants? Get my as back to Flat-land?

The thing is. We've bought a house with a 1000 square metre garden. It's ironic, considering our lack of experience. I feel the performence anxiety is setting in. What have I done?

We have rhubarb, currant and blackcurrant. I hope we'll not mistreat them and the neighbours report us. Come to think of it they may report us anyway - for letting the grass grow too high.

So we've done what we always do to approach new and unfamiliar areas: Bought a book about it.

Now I have huge plans of becoming a Garden Goddess. Next year.

P.S Blog friend Kelleyn had her girl! Mine's not her yet (luckily, would like to move in first). And did you know Stephanie is expecting one too?

Have a good week!

My Uncle's Cabin II: Vintage

2011-06-22T09:02:00.000-07:00

When they bought the cabin it seemed untouched from the 60's - filled with typical Norwegian objects from the time. They've decided to leave it like that, and the result is a real "hytte" feeling.

I'd like to welcome all new readers who's entered via Trift Core: Thrifters around the world and my feature there. Please stay if you like!

And when I said I'd hurry up to capture the Arctic summer in my last post: It seems that back to stockings before you know it is now.

See you soon!

My Uncle's Cabin I

2011-06-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

Another summery blogpost. I can't help it. I need to document my children in a summer dress. It's back to stockings before you know it.

The Arctic summer is all over the place right now. Like at my my uncle's cabin not far from here. It's a true paradise, with spring water running by.

The cabin is filled with vintage treasures - coming up next.

Are you still watching the Hurtigruten voyage? I traveled last autumn.

It's Summer Baby: Four More Weeks

2011-06-17T02:07:00.001-07:00

Four weeks to due date. I'm not excactly Mrs sittingonmybumalot, even though my official maternity leave has started. I have a vague memory of being pregnant with my first: We watched DVDs in the middle of the day.

That's ok. I like activity.

The sudden Arctic summer helps, with warm winds sent from Kola in Russia. It seems to last forever, and we hang out by the shore.

For five more days you can tune in to the live documentary from the coastal trip along Norway with Hurtigruten: Follow the beautiful voyage minute by minute. I know I will!

Thrifting in the Midnight Sun

2011-06-09T14:04:00.000-07:00

The lightbulb on the sky has been on for five days in a row. Night and day, no pause. Sun to wake up, sun to go to sleep to at night (if you can). I love it.

Some thrifting in between: I have a weakness for old plates, especially Figgjo and who can pass these cute ones.

The West German vase vase waited for me at the flea, I suspect it may be collectible with the Bay sticker on and all. But also perfect for kitchen table in the Arctic House.

Am shearing at Thrift Share Monday and Flea Market Finds

Have a good week, coming up more Arctic Summer soon.

Housetour: In Limbo with a View

2011-06-06T12:20:00.001-07:00

The Arctics have embarked on a month of living in other people's houses, waiting for our own to be ready. 1st of July is the magical date: It's all in the hands of builders and the almighty IKEA.

This week we're staying in my friend Bente's truly elegant flat. While we try not to trash it I'll take you on a housetour.

Some mid-century houseware are to be found, like beautiful Figgjo.

After a few years in a dayjob looking after her young son, she's now ready to take on the challenge as manager at a local gourmet restaurant.

In the winter time she's busy doing miles and miles of cross country skiing.

She loves art and persian carpets.

And she's my personal baker for birthdays. She actually enjoys baking, a mystery to me. Bless her. (I tried to make rhubarb pai the other day. I'll save you from the painful details).

The rest of her home here.

Have a wonderful week!

The Shop on the Wharf

2011-05-28T12:08:00.000-07:00

Bryggejentene (The Girls on the Wharf) is a well kept secret: A small shop and coffee house in a tiny village a 30 minute drive from my town.

The girls decided to start their own business, and now it's a charming tourist attraction. The children can play on the beach while you eat home made carrot cake on vintage plates, overlooking the sea. Or you can do like me: Bring home some large sitting cushions.

And sometimes you'll meet some confused kayak paddler who wonder how they landed on that beach.

How to get there? Cross the bridge, take left then right and drive until the end of the road. Then you're on the wharf.

Attemps of Capturing the Midnight Sun

2011-05-28T11:52:00.000-07:00

More and less clear pictures of the Midnight Sun. It's up all night and mysteriously gone by morning.

Oh, and the last photo - it snowed the other day. Had to capture that too, so you would believe me. I don't even know if I believe it myself.

I hope you have a good weekend!

Weekend Thrifting: I'm a Good Girl

2011-05-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

A little bit of flea market hunting this weekend: being a good girl not bringing much back. Only this egg box in yellow plastic, a beautiful clothes hanger and a Stavangerflint plate that's difficult to pass.

Our third Stokke Highchair was picked up for 20 dollars, a bargain. They never wear out, and this one will be brushed and painted for Little New One. There is no better chair for small people growing up!

Am shearing these at Thrift Share Monday and Flea Market Finds.

Have a good week!

Housetour: A Nurse's Sanctuary

2011-05-20T23:37:00.000-07:00

As head nurse ICU my friend Birgith lives with life and death. Every day. She needs a peaceful zone to withdraw with her husband and three children.

That's excactly what her home is: Huge ceilings, wood and grey and white colours. It's situated overlooking the sea, and surrounded by the wood.

This is just the place to relax. (and we tend to drool - and relax)

More from her house here.

P.S The Midnight Sun has arrived! Update soon.

Busy Day Constitution Day

2011-05-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

The Norwegian Constitution day on the 17th was spent parading, icecreaming, eating hot dogs, queeing for candy floss and catching lost helium balloons.

My beautiful girlfriends in their equally beautiful bunads.

One isn't allowed to joke around the bunad, but the colours were matching. (Please don't tell the bunad police on us)

Cake. Lots of cake.

Arctic Mum with daughter waving flags and freezing. Yes it was as cold as it looks (summer already gone?).

The teenagers acting silly in red and blue pants are celebrating the end of 12 years in school. I once acted the same, but that's beginning to be a while ago.

Cross fingers for higher temperatures!

Update: Am featured on Best of the Web: Be@Home Blog in the US - a guide to buyers of all varieties. I'm honoured - and to new readers: Welcome!

Let's Pretend It's Summer

2011-05-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

...First barbeque. Snow on mountains and garden. But spring it is!

We were enjoying every sunbeam, and I had brought my summer hat. Nothing like the first meal outside. The rest of the night we were praising the Gulf Stream. Without it we would freeze at this time and latitude.

No need to go home when the light is on all night.

Will take you on a housetour of my friend Birgith's house very soon. Have a good week!

What I Thrifted Last Weekend

2011-05-09T10:29:00.000-07:00

Two lamps, a cute red box, an old frame (for planned picture wall in new house) a big box of some kind, and an embroided picture of a boy playing the violin in Norwegian National Costume. Safe to say that one is kitch.

A vintage children's apron for the just six year old.

Pants for little person arriving in July. I love finding vintage babyclothes in cotton or wool. I pass the acrylic. It's a mystery how our parents let a whole generation stumble around like walking matchsticks in the 70s. Were they too busy looking for sigarettes and alcohol?

Difficult to pass small, cute plates.(this one is Italian, Pagnossin Treviso) I feel they belong in my kitchen cupboard.

Am sharing these at Thrift Share Monday and Flea Market Finds. Have a look!

Pre Midnight Sun Activities

2011-05-05T12:45:00.000-07:00

The livingroom is so bright these nights it has to wear shades. Sun's up to ten, and our bodies are trying to keep pace. My children won't sleep, but who can blame them. How do you persuade a four year old to put on pj's when it's not dark.

The light makes you go on and on and on and on, and in the end you burn out a little.

Making a late night snack of Arctic shrimps on toast, the best you can get. If it wasn't for that light I would've gone to bed.

My daughter was six (11 kids can drink a looot of soft drinks), and I wonder if my 40th next year will have a table as messy as this. Suspect messier.

Have a good week! Will be returning back very soon with thrifted goodies.

Back to life. Back to reality

2011-04-30T07:15:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I'm back from denial (charter holiday in Gran Canaria, looking very pregnant in ridiculous hat, not my most elegant moment). We had a wonderful time, sun and pool all along.

Some observations:

* Scandinavians don't talk to eachother on charter holiday. Any ideas why? I presume a combination of uncertainty of social status at home, (he could be a carpenter, he could be a manager) and general shyness (openness and smalltalk is not for Scandinavians). We swore we'd act differently, but ended up like everyone else. It's a little bit sad.

* Las Palmas is a beautiful capital. Had the best lunch ever at "El Herreno". I got my squid, and it was heavenly.

* Reading Michel Houellebecqs disturbing novel on tourism "Platform" is interesting on a holiday like this. I recommend it. Or not.

* Spring not sprung in the Arctic as I imagined in my holiday euphoria. Will it ever? Read my next chapter in a couple of days!

The Arctic: It's You. Not me

2011-04-14T01:58:00.000-07:00

We're leaving these blizzards (yes, still) for two weeks at Gran Canaria. I wish I could tell The Arctic it's me, not you. But I can't. April in the Arctic sucks.

This is our official summer holiday, since the summer holiday will be spent having a baby.

I'll:

* Eat all the fried squid I can.

* Use my brain cells on some decent literature (for the two hours a day we're outsourcing the children to the activity club, will they end up like this, ha-ha) like The Bad Girl by Mario Vargas Llosa.

* Teach my six year old to swim, as swimming in the Arctic is Science Fiction.

* Do plenty of holiday people watching.

Or maybe I'll just sit on a sunbed all day.

The Bridget Jones denial method will stop me from reminding myself that we don't have an entrepeneur, a kitchen or a bathroom in the new house. (Denial can apply to many other areas in life, just try. It works in a very pleasant, short term way)

See you soon!

The Light is Back

2011-04-13T00:25:00.001-07:00

The sun sets at eight, and in a month time we'll have sunlight 24/7. Snow's still here, but it's melting slowly. These are from the main road surrounding the island. A little bit of "greenish" on the side.

Arctic Dad visited Island last week, and picked up this gorgeous vase in a shop called Frida Franka Antique in Reykjavik. Pink tulips suddenly became more beautiful than ever.

See you in the weekend!

Kitchen Demolition Dynasty

2011-04-06T12:13:00.000-07:00

Snowfall again today. Is it the last of the season? Who knows, anything can happen in the Arctic.

This little lady is four today. She may be a future optician, with a little help from her friend granddad.

We've demolished the kitchen in the new house. To our surprise it means we definately need a new kitchen, and in a month and a half. I've heard projects like these cause divorce. Cross fingers!

My friend Teresa in London sent us our first house warming gift, a granny square pillow! We used to chase cheap Bordeaux and men together in France. Now she chases vintage goodnesses for me on e-bay.

She's also the woman behind this vintage lego loveliness that my eldest daughter guards with her life from her little sister.

Still some time to enter my giveaway! Update: Meg in Wisconsin won the Qualman-book! Check out her great blog!

A Social Giveaway: Socialnomics

2011-04-04T12:53:00.000-07:00

For all you working girls out there, or for you interested in social media: In front of the beautiful tulips my father got me is a book you might be interested in.

Eric Qualman is the american author of the bestselling book Socialnomics.

He teaches you how to make business through social media. He doesn't teach you how to avoid controversial personal opinions when employed at a firm.

But hey, you should now that by now!

He's a really nice guy (and has a very healthy appearance, white teeth and sort of Swedish looking). And look, he signed the book for the Arctic Mum readers! And claims he loves you! I don't know if that's really true, but I love you! Loads.

Do you want me to mail it to you, wherever you are in the world? Leave a comment before April 10th!

Thrifting in The Snow

2011-03-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

Our view when opening the front door every morning. But being pregnant with an argumentative pelvic means I don't have to shovel!

Found this gorgeous souvenir plate from the State of Washington (!) in between heavy snowfalls. Judging from the plate there is so much to do there! Do any of you readers agree?

We'll move in to our new house in May. The previous owners left a few things for us. Like this cookie tin, a 70s Coffe container and a couple of Figgjo egg cups.

Not to forget the lamp in the master bedroom. Beautiful.

Am shearing these at Thrift Share Monday.

On 78 Degrees North

2011-03-25T10:39:00.000-07:00

Svalbard is the northernmost populated place on earth. Longyear has three kindergartens, a school, cafees, library and a big tourist industry. It's isolated, and the only way to leave is by plane.

I need a few more ways out, so living there wouldn't be for me. But I loved to visit! And I see why people get addicted to the Extreme Arctic Lifestyle.

It's a magnetic place.

As you can see from the sign above, there is a good reason for the fence surrounding the kindergarten.

I'm somewhere behind that "hat".

More pictures on Flickr.!

First Coffe in the New House

2011-03-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

This is our house that we now own (in happy companionship with La Banque). It has a garden hose, a garage and a snowblower.

Nothing like the first coffee and chocolate in the kitchen!

We plan to renovate a little or a lot. Money talks.

Retro tiles and cool spice rack. Must keep that last one.

I confide to you that I've had moments of House Commitment Anxiety:

Now I'll never have a flat in Paris, where I listen to garbage trucks in the morning, accompagnied by acccordion. Nor live in Italian decadence with free range children and chickens.

This mean we're stuck in the snow forever. But that's ok. I have serious plans of vacation house swapping.

I'm off to Svalbard for a few days. It'll be cold. It'll be brutal. I might meet a polar bear, who knows.

I'll take a shameless amount of pictures to show you next weekend!

How Things Come Back

2011-03-16T14:23:00.000-07:00

My biggest and overwhelming fear as a child was the atomic cloud, as many in my generation. We were growing up in the last phase of the cold war. Norway was a friend to the U.S and a neighbour to Russia.

In the Arctic we're on eachother's doorstep.

These last days the anxious feeling of unsafety has returned, even though Japan is far away. I guess there's nothing else for us to do than to live our everyday lives. And help.

monchhichi dolls from the 80s.

(I promise you more lightness in the weekend!)

An Ego Trip to The Capital

2011-03-13T00:04:00.001-08:00

I just spent two days at a web conference in Oslo, as web is my day job. And you can never underestimate the healthy effect of two ego hotelnights, with breakfast all to oneself. Nor a catch-up date with a good friend. Simply a cure for tired mothers.

I like the Royal Palace and the park around it.

Nice to get home to these two, especially when thinking of Japan. It makes me so sad. You can help here.

Have a good week!

Do Hipsters Live in the Arctic?

2011-03-08T05:22:00.000-08:00

I saw a tv program about the hipster scene in Brooklyn, New York. (Or rather the hatred against them) Appearantly they collect vintage cameras and lead a lifestyle revolving around thrift stores.

I collect vintage cameras, and revolve my life around thrift stores.

Arctic Dad even owns a "hipster" bike! And occasionally a moustache too.

I suspect the hipster definition doesn't really include 38 year old mothers of three with a secret hang to crocheting granny squares, who lives in a place so deserted that weather forecasts cut it from the world map (just check!).

And who lost the overview of indie music around 1999.

But then again. Hipsters don't admit to being hipsters.

Things To Do in the Arctic when it Snows

2011-03-04T11:27:00.001-08:00

You guessed it! Make crispbread of course. Infact my new hobby (those hormons won't leave me alone). The good news is that these are supposed to be flat.And so easy to make (not Nigella easy, but easy easy)

We eat huge amounts, with the typical Norwegian sweet goat cheese.

And did I mention it just won't stop snowing?

I wish you a less snowful week!

A Hormonal Invation 2: It's Getting Scary

2011-03-02T01:24:00.000-08:00

The aliens in the shape of pregnancy hormons are continuing to take over my body. Now it's getting scary.

I can do nothing but crocheting granny squares. As a matter of fact I think about granny squares day and night, and my big girl job is suffering.

Another proof is that I've recently felt an overwhelming urge to

- hold on -

Bake.Cakes. I usually avoid baking like the plague. Nothing gets burned even, which shows that the aliens have completed their mission.

What's next? Will I be starting to make cupcakes??

The rest of the family is busy shuffling endless amounts of snow in the Arctic.

I might have to send him on a motorbike course. Expecting the third (!) girl means testosterone levels must be kept high. It also means we will need a big bathroom in the new house.

Enjoy your week!

An Amplifier Thrifting Shock

2011-02-25T03:28:00.000-08:00

I picked up these amplifiers because I thought I'd for once thrift something that could make Arctic Dad happy as well. I gave ten dollars, returning home to my biggest thrift shock so far: Tandberg Fasett are design icons from 1971! Apparently people must bleed to get hold of a pair.

Will keep them as hidden assets until mortgage rate raises.

I also thrifted a pair of 70s surprisingly bright curtains. When Polar Night arrives they can function as a sun substitute.

Two rolls of 1976 wallpaper from a long gone Norwegian factory came home with me. Maybe suitable for a small wall only..

Lizzie in the UK won the giveaway!

Enjoy your weekend. These flea market finds were shared at Her Library Adventures - flea market finds and Apron Thrift Girl.

Arctic Mum soon in da New House

2011-02-23T12:03:00.000-08:00

We became house owners today! It feels like winning the lottery, we've been looking for so long.

I have plans of decorating my yellow 1968 house with a strong vintage vibe, but I suspect Arctic Dad may have more contemporary ideas. There may be a conflict. I think I'll win.

While waiting to move in a couple of months, we enjoy the amazing view from this place. It's breathtaking.

Enjoy it with me.

P.S Don't forget my giveaway.

A winterly 60s giveaway book

2011-02-15T06:03:00.001-08:00

A day off was spent downtown. It was too freezing to bring out the camera to be honest, but here's a few shots from the small city center of mine. And here's from last year.

A major online bookstore sent me two examples of "Portobello Road - photographed in the 60s." Maybe as a consolation prize for ordering and living so far north? So I thought I'd give one to you instead!

Leave a comment to enter to win before Saturday the 26th of February. My last giveaways ended up in the US and Australia.

I wonder where I can pin the globus this time?

What's in my Bag

2011-02-15T05:44:00.000-08:00

Isabelle inspired me to show off my bag content of the day - actually every day: phone, a lipgloss from The Body Shop, my wallet on a notebook, the key card to work, two reflector bands, a make up bag from Skrekk&Gru, hand lotion, wrist worms from Sandra Juto and my keys.

To play along, go to Dos Family

First trip to the ski track in 2011

2011-02-13T09:29:00.000-08:00

I have mixed feelings towards cross country skiing after being dragged along on long trips as a child.

But look who's talking: now it's my turn to encourage, "We'll have hot chocolate soon. Just a little bit longer"

It's still a bit too cold to enjoy it to the full. Our toes got cold and after an hour we were back home for a hot bath.

I wish you a great week! My 14 year old niese are coming to stay, we'll see Burlesque ( slightly sceptical).

The Cure for Hormonal Invation

2011-02-09T09:59:00.000-08:00

Pregnancy hormones have landed from outer space and invaded my body. They don't listen to common sense and have thrown my normal self into a parallel universe:

Often I'm so filled with love I could peacemake in every war there is, even the scary forgotten ones.

Not seldom I cry my heart out only thinking of those wars.

And just as often I feel like starting my own (very often, actually).

It's exchausting.

In unstable times like these there is only one person on DVD to count on: go Mr Darcy: I look forward to 5 hours of utterly safety and comfort in your company.

Here's one for Le Skrei!

2011-02-05T11:49:00.000-08:00

One of the advantages of living by an Arctic coast, is the access to fresh seafood of superb quality all year round.

I love the seafood store: prawns, haddock, salmon, coalfish, halibut and even the southern guest tuna.

Today I picked up some wonderful pieces of Arctic Cod. Not any cod, but the cod that gets the oohhs and wows from the gourmet chefs of France: Le Skrei.

The skrei wanders along the coast, from the Barents Sea to the Lofoten Islands where hundreds of fishing boats eagerly await it's arrival in February. And all the newspapers go: IT'S HERE!

The enthusiasts take it with liver and roe, we like it au naturel, with steamed carrots, boiled potates and melted butter. That's it.

Like Nigella you'll find me sneaking around the fridge by night for leftovers: (and these nights I'm up at least at couple of times): on toast with mayones and a pinch of salt n pepper. I've always thought does anyone do that - really??? For The Skrei, I do.

Have a great week!

The Sun Shines on my Teak Cabinet

2011-01-31T01:43:00.000-08:00

Guess what! I met the sun for the first time in a few months on Saturday. I felt renewed, fresh and happy. It's a wonderful experience, every single year.

The light fell beautifully on the beloved mid-century teak cabinet I fought over at an estate sale some time ago.

The light fell on the sofa too. And the plants, surprisingly surviving the Polar Night. I felt like capturing how the sunlight fell on everything in the house.

Playing outdoors is different now: Sun, snow and light. It's not even that cold anymore.

I hope you have a splendid week where you are!

No Return of The Sun. Only the Bun

2011-01-23T08:20:00.000-08:00

The sun made no appearance on Return of The Sun Day on Friday. But we couldn't skip the tradition of the Sun Bun for that sake!

Even though we haven't spotted the sun yet, the days are longer and more welcoming. Calling them light would be an exaggeration. But we're getting there.

The annual film festival is the highlight of January. The snow screen is great, especially when they show children's movies with popcorn,(more)sun buns and hot toddy!

I'v seen the magnificent Winter's Bone. I highly recommend it. Is it showing on a theater near you? Run to the ticket counter. As fast as you can.

Have a great week, everyone!

A 1963 dinner on New Years Eve

2011-01-18T01:38:00.000-08:00

This is my dear friend Ida with her husband on New Years Eve 2010. Or rather 1963, which was the theme of the night. Can't you spot it?

Mock crayfish cocktail to start with. Unfortunately I weren't there, because Ida lives in Australia and there's a 30 hour flight between us.

No one can cook like her, and there is no such hostess either.

This is the 1963 menu even Betty Draper can't beat: Scandinavian meat balls, Cold salmon, Scallop potatoes, Czech potato salad, Lime pineapple and cucumber jelly salad, Boeuf bourguignon and Mashed potatoes.

Omelette Norvégienne. So 1963.

When Ida phoned 16 years ago to tell me she'd met a dashing Aussie an a remote beach in Thailand, I never would've predicted marriage, a daughter and a permanent stay as long from the Arctic as can be. Life can take unexpected turns!

I'll be back on Saturday with a Return of the Sun Day report!

How To Populate The Arctic

2011-01-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

Someone has to make sure there are people living in our world's most challenging areas - these cold, harsh environments where winter resides three quarter of the year etc.

This someone seems to be me: I will add another little person to the Arctic in July. A brand new one!

I've heard rumours that it is possible to have three children under six and stay sane...I'll be grateful for any advice in that department.

Six days to Return of The Sun Day! And we're planning a great escape to someplace warm in April. The Canaries? (picture from 2nd daughter's nap below dried cod a couple of years ago)

A hot (and very cold) trip with the Spa Boat

2011-01-09T12:29:00.000-08:00

I was in heaven on Saturday. Our four-hour trip with Vulkana started with drinks where they used to keep fish in the old days. Now it's a zen lounge and a hamam designed by the Finnish architect Sami Rintala.

Next was sauna and the hot tub on deck. The water was burning hot, but the air -6 degrees Celsius. No wonder we had our hats on!

The boat toured around the island. It was cold and clear and just fantastic.

The Northern Lights also made an entrance. Even though the picture conditions were not the best.

The baot made a stop for this girl who made a swim in the sea! I guess the water held a couple of degrees Celcius.

I don't know what material whe's made of, she may well be extra-terrestrial. She is the toughest one of us.

The American chef made us smoked whale with artichoke dip for starters and filet of reindeer on rocks (literarely)as main course. I recommend everyone to have dinner in bathrobes after sauna and a hot tube. It sure didn't hurt anywhere.

We ended the night with marinated pears in the lounge, before we entered the hamam for the last treatment.

Now I'm refreshed and (almost) ready for a new week of waking up too late, run out the door, kindergarden, work, ten-minute dinners and collapsing on the coach. Have a great week!

Waiting for the Sun

2011-01-06T12:05:00.000-08:00

I admit that I start to crave the light now. But I'm not desperate, like I was this excact date last year.

15 days to The Return of the Sun Day.

While waiting my book circle (which happends to consist of my best friends)will place our tired, working bodies to a fishing boat turned restaurant and spa. We'll be sailing along, having dinner, sauna and a bubblebath on deck. I'll be enjoying every minute (I'll skip the jumping in the sea bit). Maybe I'll capture the Northern Lights? I'll give you a photo report on Sunday!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T12:37:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Our night was spent with friends. On the menu: scallops, salmon, kamchatka crab, entrecôte, meatballs and chocolate mousse. And children staying up far too late, but oh all the fireworks!

My New Year resolutions: Find and buy a house. Leave the sofa more to go on dates with Arctic Dad. I wish you all the best for 2011!

Merry Christmas to everyone!

2010-12-23T13:15:00.000-08:00

I always get very emotional at Christmas, and a coctail of feelings arise, sometimes in shades of grey and sometimes in bright colours.

Now our tree is ready, and we can't wait to see what Santa will bring us tomorrow.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas, and I'm sending you big hugs wherever you are!

The Blue Hour in the Gingerbread Village

2010-12-19T12:50:00.000-08:00

We spent the blue hour at the public library today. It's freezing outside. There is a village of gingerbread houses there. My favourite is the slum area made by Amnesty International. To remind us how lucky we are to be free.

Will you like me run around to fix the last things this week? Note to both you and self: Breathe into your stomach.

A Herring Merry Christmas

2010-12-13T12:31:00.000-08:00

We try to stay outdoors as much as we can these days. I'm craving that light at the moment.

Whereas you now know I'm not a baker, I'll reveal that I'm quite a fine herring dish maker! It might not be so useful on a daily basis, but tomato herring and mustard herring is very, very yummi on rye bread for Christmas.

We made (store bought dough) gingerbread this weekend, a lot of fun but with mixed results. Let's just say I won't quit my day job to become a full time gingerbread designer.

Enjoy your week!

Swinging in The Dark (and a confession)

2010-12-06T12:13:00.000-08:00

Of course you can swing and play in the dark. Just add a couple of reflective vests or a headlamp!

I'm good at having the Christmas presents ready early. What I'm not good at is baking. I have to confess I think it's boring.

My bread rolls are flat and useless (except you can use them to knock a person out), the cakes are either dry or burnt in the ove. I once had to make three chocolate cakes to my daughter's birthday.

I just have lack of interest, (I also blame genetics, my mother's bread rolls were even heavier) and can think of a million things I'd rather do on a Sunday Morning. Even clean the house.

I feel quite alone in Bloglandia about this. Maybe there's a Boring Bakers Anonymous meeting I could go to? The good thing is that my children's teenage revolt probobly will be about baking.

There. I've said it. You'll never see a cupcake here.

As Light as It Gets

2010-11-30T07:35:00.000-08:00

December always comes as a surprise, so the advent candle is lit a few days too late. December is the busiest month, but luckily my favourite Australian - Donyale have put up a Time Management program for us! I must get time to use it (lol)

I have plans to lower my Christmas ambitions this year too. Just enjoy the light while it's there, the view and the candles. Oh well, ask me in two weeks time how those plans are going..How's your December?

New view to the Northern Lights

2010-11-25T13:03:00.000-08:00

New house means brand new view. I like this rented house so much I may have to chain demonstrate to leave in August.

The Northern Lights is very much in our view. But instead of me freezing my fingers off trying to capture it with my camera with all the light pollution present, you'd be better of checking out this CC Vimeo Northern Lights video from my area. It's magical.

Aurora Borealis timelapse HD - Tromsø 2010 from Tor Even Mathisen on Vimeo.

Lutefisk: A Tutorial

2010-11-21T13:34:00.000-08:00

Stephanie asked me to blog what we eat on a daily basis in Norway. Since Christmas is up soon, I'll show you what we eat this time of year - for tradition. Lutefisk is the highlight of the season, and something I look forward to all year. It's true!

The taste is neutral, in consistence it reminds me of glass noodles - with a fish taste. Eating shivering fish with a lye smell can be..challenging. Which is understandable. My Danish brother in-law still struggles after 20 years in this family

I just had a great first meal of the season, and my colleague Huibert filmed it. To show you how we eat it. The secret is the accessories...

The fish is on the plate, along with mashed Peas and mashed Rutabaga. I'm adding:
Boiled almond potatoes
Bacon (yes, bring it on)
Syrup
Brown whey cheese
Mustard

Drink: Beer and Aquavit!

Northermost: The regional theatre

2010-11-15T11:53:00.000-08:00

On my far from official northermost list, I've now come to the regional theatre. The building is new, and every month they have improvisational theatre for kids. We like! We also like the art in front: that you can jump on and play with. Even pat if you like.

Friday is moving day. Enjoy your week!

The Arctic Cathedral in Blue

2010-11-13T11:43:00.000-08:00

The Arctic Cathedral is coloured in blue this weekend, in awareness of the World Diabetes Day. It's so beautiful and special.

Build in 1965 the parish church is the most famous landmark of my town. The arctitecture is supposed to be resembling ice and snow.

I'm enjoying the weekend, and I can't believe Aung San Suu Kyi is free!