Happy birthday N*O*R*W*A*Y

Yesterday was Norway's national day ('Grunnlavdag' in Norwegian - literally 'foundation law day'). I was as awestruck and in wonder as last year. There is nothing like it in South Africa. My amazement was sparked not only by the incredible national dress - each one hand made and a unique work of art, but also by the united spirit of these people. Everyone was happy at the exact same time about the exact same thing: their country. There is no guilt or shame, no pain or national baggage that is found in South Africa. Everyone is the same, the same history, the same culture and the same feelings towards their country. I have never experienced that before. South Africans don't even have one language, one common tongue!

Their love for their country is expressed in the way they treat their flag, with utmost respect, never letting it drag on the ground or leaving it out at night. When I heard a child at preschool being strongly rebuked for standing on the flag I was completely perplexed, remembering watching our flag being burnt on the 6 o clock news as a child. There is so much dividing the people of South Africa, and so much uniting Norwegians.

I really enjoyed it - and my children looked so Norwegian in their national dress. I often look at them and marvel at the fact they are becoming Norwegian children, with Norwegian childhoods and a Norwegian tongue. It is sometimes so surreal to watch their lives unfold against a background that is so foreign to me.

Kristin wore her aunt Anna's national dress from when she was little. Her granny made it for her. We bought Kaleb's outfit, and he was very proud of it!

Then we joined the march through town, waving flags, blowing horns, the band marching ahead, and each person a living piece of art.

Kristin walking with her best friend from school, Heidi.

Me and Kaleb.

After that we had some coffee with Daniel's granny, the one who made Kristin's national dress, and hers and Marit's! Amazing.

There she is with Anna.

Besta and Kaleb.

Kristin and her precious Aunty Anna pulling faces.

After that we went to play at a school with most of the other children in our town.

Kristin with Thea - one of our neighbours.

Some of the kids.