Hallo fra Norge!

This month, I hopped across the pond (a.k.a. the Atlantic Ocean) to visit my Ph.D. advisor and his family in Trondheim, Norway.  Since Dave has a visiting position at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, I was able to give a talk in the department's algebra seminar...and thus ultimately feel productive during my globe-trotting. :)

But my trip wasn't entirely business.  Despite the lack of sunlight -- Trondheim is only about 3 degrees south of the arctic circle -- I was able to do some quality sightseeing and learn a bit about the Norwegian culture.  But the highlight of my visit was getting to spend time with the fantastic Jorgensen clan: Sam, Katie, Grace, and Isaac...and their parents!

And apparently my visit was also a highlight to the kids, who took my arrival as a cue to begin devouring a recently-made gingerbread house.  In fact, this photo was taken less than 10 seconds before the entire house was in pieces!  I didn't have much time to brace myself for the sugar-high that ensued after they were finished.  But, once the energy wore off, it was great to spend time with some of my favorite kids!

All of Trondheim was beautiful, but the most picturesque place that I found was this view from the Gamle Bybro, meaning Old Town Bridge.

Actually, all of the buildings in Trondheim are pristine and colorful like these.  The town really does epitomize the word charming. 

Trondheim is also home to the Nidaros Cathedral, which is the traditional location for the consecration of the King of Norway.  The church is incredibly old, with the oldest part of the structure being over one thousand years old!

Toward the end of my visit, I accompanied the Jorgensen family to lunch at the Tyholt Tower, which provides a breathtaking view of the fjord, as well as the entire town of Trondheim.

 

The top of the tower makes about one revolution per hour.  Though it was only lunchtime, the sun was already starting to make its "descent" -- in quotes since the sun never really ascends during the winter months. 

This beautiful sunset photo was taken from my bedroom window -- at around 3 p.m. -- on my last day in Norway.

Ha det, fra Norge!!