Sunsets, Waffles, & Horses

Norway

“A day without a Norwegian is a day without sunshine.” Unknown

This has been one of the most fun and enjoyable adventures I've had in the last few years of traveling, thanks to Ingeborg. Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined camping and hiking around Norway…and with such a wonderful person in a camper van. Ingeborg has planned and made this trip one special for my personal memory book. I am going to miss her dearly and cannot thank her enough for being such a wonderful hostess.

In true Ingeborg style, she wasn't going to let one moment of our time together go to waste. If anyone embodies the quote “Carpe diem,” it’s Inge. She lives in the moment better than anyone I know and her life is a reflection of this mentality. Just check out her Instagram. The photos from her adventures are amazing.

For the final two days of my visit, after she got off from working her 8-hour shifts, she took me hiking and for a cookout to watch the sunset at two of her favorite local spots near Stavanger.

Our first hike led us to Dagsturhytta Søsterhytta a little cottage overlooking the fjord on the opposite side of Stavanger.

The word Søsterhytta translated means sister cottage because all of the cabins are designed alike.

The Søsterhytta is a community-based cabin/shelter. A rest spot if you will. Anyone can use them for free (God I love Norway). They have a few chairs and a loft for sitting, relaxing, and enjoying the view, and even a little library. There are a few rules to keep the place clean, which of course everyone follows - no shoes inside, clean up after yourself, no sleepovers, etc. There were a couple of other people there during our visit and everyone was friendly and respectful of each other's space. So lovely.

Ingeborg had thought of everything. She brought a mat to sit on and burgers with all the “fixins” and veggies for dinner. Simple yet so pleasurable.

We watched the sunset and enjoyed the silence. There is just something about nature and a beautiful sunset (or sunrise) that makes a person feel centered and as if all is right in the world. More grounding, please.

On our walk back to the car, the sunset continued to get better and better with each step. The trees and water created a picturesque backdrop for the hike. Magic.

On my last night in town (sad face), Inge had a beach picnic packed and ready to go for when she got off of work. I swear she never stops…and she loves giving surprises. She would never tell me where we were going or what we were doing (just what to wear) which made the adventures even more fun.

She drove us to a little hidden spot that mostly only the locals (and now you) know about called Ogna Lagunen

When we arrived there were a few families having picnics and swimming but it was later in the day (and a Sunday) so our time didn't overlap for long and then we had the place to ourselves for a bit.

Inge packed an easy-to-make pasta with veggies and we enjoyed our dinner on the beach…camping chairs included. Her little propane cooker is fantastic. Easy to use, lightweight, and cooks food in minutes.

She even packed Norwegian waffles for dessert! They come premade in those cute little heart-shaped designs.

After dinner we cleaned up our dishes and waded through the water to climb one of the big rocks, barefoot. The water was a beautiful greenish-teal color depending on the light. It was warmer than I thought it would be, but still too chilly to swim in for my taste.

Inge loved soaking in the rays. She continues to tell me she has to soak up the sun while it is shining, “Winter is coming and it will be dark most of the day. I’ve got to be outside!”

We waded back through the water, packed up our gear, and put on our hiking shoes to trek to the top of a small hill to watch the sunset. These views are stunning no matter which direction you turn.

As we were watching the sunset, we noticed a young girl and her horse trotting down the path to the water. I was mesmerized by what happened next. If this isn't a freaking fairytale image or Disney movie, I don't know what is.

My heart is forever changed by the beauty of Norway and the kindness of my dear friend Ingeborg. Norway is a place I hope to visit many times during my remaining time on the planet. It is truly magical and full of lovely people who treat others the way they would like to be treated. Add this country to your bucket list…you won’t regret it.

Until next time. 🇳🇴

Good Things List

1. Good friends, good hikes, and stunning views of Norway.

2. Wild horses.

3. Starfish.

Much love & gratitude from Norway! 🇳🇴Namaste 🙏

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Yes! That is a real starfish…and snails of course. I saw it on our walk to the Søsterhytta.

Inge reading the rules of the Søsterhytta.

One of the buns got a little toasty. Oopsie.

Inge loves the traditional brown cheese on her waffles. It’s too wild of a flavor combo for my tastebuds.