Our Parents aren't in Cork Part 2

Well actually we're now back in Cork, but we had a second week away, in Norway.

Had very good instructions from VL to get train from Oslo Airport to Skoppum, where VL met us at 8p.m. on 27th.

Were delighted to be back at No 86 and to see Mrs VL (plus tiny lump) peg and the 5 cats.

It was not snowy, and only just freezing, so we were able to enjoy the outdoors. Spent a good while helping to stock up the woodpiles. Had the satisfaction of disposing of a huge pile of large logs and planks which are now neatly stacked ready for next year or the year after. Actually, we got the job done just as the snow started, so were delighted with oursleves. Also one more garage door was hung, but time and the light ran out on the second. Maybe, by now it is done.
Other smaller jobs on the famous blackboard were also completed, so great satisfaction all round.

We had a lovely day in Sofiemyer with Mrs VL's Mum and Dad. The highlight was the playing of Christmas music on the piano accordian accompanied by the piano. Also walking around the subburb and looking at all the decorations. The Norwegians really do Christmas in style.

Needless to say, every meal was a an adventure, and we tried our hand too at a little bit of cordonbleu. The chocolate mousse was delicious, but very sinful.

New Year's Evening we had special food, played a Scrabbled based game and then went outside to let off four little fireworks, ten sparklers and to enjoy all the displays around us. Auld Lang Syne was not up to its usual standard, but we did our best. It was all very atmospheric (and cold)!

By the end of our days at No 86, we were planning the summer and a family holiday. Hopefully, this will happen and we will yet again be in the land of the midnight sun, and able to go outside without having to get dressed up for the cold.

We spent our last day in Norway in Sandefjord and saw the shops and the train station and the fjord. All too soon it was time to return to Cork and to normality. We have very happy memories of our lovely time over the Christmas/New year and thank our lovely dils for making us so welcome and at home.