Sunset over the Sea

Sunset over Oslofjord: painting the winter sky

Sunset at Oslo Harbor

As 2018 draws to a close, it's time for the sun to set and for the final lines to be written for 2018. Just as the sunset casts reflections in the ripples of Oslofjord, I'm going to use this last blog post of the year for reflection, and to just share some of my favorite photos from Oslo.

Sunset over the boats at Aker Brygge.

One year ago, I could only dream of living in Oslo. Now after several months, full of wonder, and sometimes struggles, I'm so blessed to be able to call this city my home.

View of the boats and Akershus Festning.

In the short time I've been here, I have absolutely fallen in love with the nature; islands, parks, forests, and lakes around the city.

Boats in the harbor.

I'm so grateful for my parents who have always supported me, and continue to have my back despite the distance. I am also grateful of my classmates, friends, and Norway for welcoming me with open arms and helping me to feel at home.

Statues along Oslo harbor.

Despite the challenges I've faced and those which will surely arise next year, I feel so blessed and happy. This next year; dream big, work hard, and never give up! Anything is possible if you believe!

The setting sun.

Thanks for taking time out to read my blog! I look forward to sharing new adventures and photos! Wishing everyone a safe, happy, and healthy 2019!

Godt nytt år!   Hyvää Uuta Vuotta!   Happy New Year!

Lessons from Leaves

Reflections from an Autumn Evening

 Bjølsenparken.

After several days of working intensely on a ten page essay, I welcomed an evening stroll to free me from my notes and textbooks. 

My favorite spot in Bjølsenparken

So, tonight following my exam I went out for some fresh air, exercise, and to catch the last of the autumn leaves.

Bjølsenparken

As the leaves pile on the ground, the days begin shortening. Soon Oslo will become brown, cold, and dark. Honestly, the thought of this frightens me. I'll miss the green, the yellow, the red, the orange leaves; all dancing like rainbows in the trees. 

Along the Akerselva near Sagene.

The air was cool and crisp, and the pathways were caked in fallen leaves. My eyes desperately fluttered from tree to ground and all around, trying absorb the feeling of autumn and view every leaf.

Myrløkka in Sagene.

While walking along, more and more leaves on the ground started catching my attention.  Red leaves, yellow leaves, small leaves, tall leaves, grooved leaves, smooth leaves, pointed leaves...so many different leaves!

Fallen leaves.

Noticing all of the different types of leaves mixed atop each other on the ground reminded me of people. These fallen leaves are just as diverse as people, yet they are all together in the same spot, and facing the same fate despite differences. 

Sageneparken.

Part of the essay I wrote dealt with inequality, be it indigenous rights, woman's rights, etc; discussing types of socio-cultural knowledge and transformations needed to tackle climate change. Staring at these leaves made me think of culture. How people of diverse backgrounds, religions, cultures, live and work among one another. No matter how diverse, people, like leaves, can get along and co-exist. 

Sunlight through the autumn leaves.

Whether a single leaf, or an individual person, each has just as important a role in the circle of life. Watching the sun set behind the falling leaves, I realize how quickly time passes, and how the seasons change. Nature is beautiful and needs protecting.