Trondheim, Day 1

Monday, July 21

We awoke comfortably rested in the home of relatives in Norway.  I was up early to write, but soon Torgeir then Heidi came down to do their daily exercises.   Barb joined us soon thereafter.  The early morning gave hint to a warm day, 86 degrees, and we readily bask in the fresh cool air at this time.  It is Heidi’s birthday and Torgeir begins breakfast with a champagne toast.    Shortly, the doorbell rings, more than once,  flowers delivered to a lady who obviously has several loved ones noting her day.   

We soon learned that wonderful breakfast feasts we had at the hotels were repeated at the Vollset home.  Our conversation was so lively and open, friends who had spent only 5 days together two years ago, now again together.  But so close are the ties, cultivated by regular honest and heartfelt emails, comfort and warmth goes well beyond the sips of champagne.

 Torgeir and Heidi drove us to the historic district of Trondheim. 

Old town Trondheim

There are many hills.  At this fairly steep hill, a bicycle lift, put your foot on it, push a button, and it will propel you up hill. 

We visited the fort, high on the hill with stunning vistas of Trondheim.  Therein lie the remnants of cells, most recently serving to incarcerate captured members of Norway’s resistance forces, 1942-45.  A historical marker indicates where some 30 resistance fighters were executed via firing squad.  A quote from one of the fighters is displayed on the wall, “Today I die with a smile on my face knowing that I have fought the good fight toward total victory.”

Memorial to the fallen at the site of their execution.

We met the kids at 2 and headed for the Nidaros Cathedral, started by the Roman Catholic church in 1070.  After the Reformation, it was taken over by the Lutherans.    All were in awe of the majesty, massiveness and ornateness of the building.  We toured the inside then most of our group, not me, climbed the narrow stairs to the tower for views of surrounding Trondheim.

A view from the Cathedral tower, taken by Barb

 We also toured the Royal Museum where the crowns and other royal artifacts are displayed.  Interestingly, the present King Harald V, spent much of World War II living in the U.S. and is pictured as a five year old, standing by FDR as he is takes his 4^th oath of office.  Harald V, also, choose a benediction process in 1991, rather than a regal coronation, for his induction as king, not using the royal robes, crown, or the pageantry of such.

We all ate dinner at a local restaurant including Michael, age 24, and his girlfriend Helle.  We returned to the Vollset home fulfilled by another complete and meaningful day.

Eric, Kari, Michael, and Nathan

Cailyn, Hella, Ben, and Penny