The last time we saw Brynjar it was the summer of 1996. It was the beginning of his married life (actually his honeymoon) to Lotte 20 years ago. Since that time he grew his family by three children (now 17, 16 and 12) and we, of course, have crossed the world once or twice, uniting our lives and growing in family size as well. So given the chance to spend one night in Oslo a quick email to Bryn reconnected us for one day.
Bryn, Lotte and their youngest son, Tarald took the day off to become tour guides for us and we were off. Beautiful home-made breakfast here, viking ships there, a short documentary video by Bryn shot in Antarctica, a ferry ride across the downtown area, a meal where we were joined by their daughter Kristina and they heartfelt goodbyes at the Oslo train station on our way back to the airport.
You'd think that 20 years would be difficult to catch up to, but this visit was so easy... it just flowed into one story after another, once conversation after another, one silly joke after another... just like good friendship should. The hugs at the end were bitter sweet, for as wonderful as it was to see Bryn and his beautiful family it also left a longing to make sure that we meet up again, perhaps sooner rather than later.
Judging from just how comfortable our girls took to their new Norwegian friends we hope that a return visit will be in order. Thank you Bryn, and Lotte, and Tarald. What a perfect host family for a group of weary travellers. So long, good friends. Until we meet again. Love to you all.
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