Sailing along

We have been extremely fortunate to do some sailing during our stay in Norway (mega brownie points for me). A big thanks goes out to our Norwegian friend (remember the diver?) who just happens to own the beauty off to the left. It is an old German Patrol Cruiser (1956 I think) that was rehabed into a pleasure craft. Well, we have been fortunate enough to be invited to sail on her quite a few times over the last two years. Here we are docked near a place called Oscarsborg fortress.

Courtesy of Wikipedia: (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oscarsborg_Fortress)
Oscarsborg festning is a coastal fortress in the Oslofjord, close to the small city of Drøbak. The fortress is situated on two small islets in the fjord and was military territory until 2003 when it was made a publicly available resort island. The fortress became famous during World War II for the 9 April 1940 sinking of the German heavy cruiser Blucher.


Chris enjoying the wind in her hair. It is much shorter now, not sure we could get the same action shot this time around. She has thoroughly enjoyed the sailing experience and seems a natural at sea. Maybe she should have been a Sailor too.

Ron enjoying the day underway. You can see all the houses and "hyttes" (cabins) off in the background. These hyttes are wonderful little (sometimes big) places that Norwegians are famous for owning. I don't think I have met a Norwegian that doesn't have one in their family. They often vacation at these hideaways during summer and winter holidays. In my opinion, they have a totally different perspective on work and play time from your average American perspective (and I think they have got it right!). Chris and I have been honored by another Norwegian friend with an invitation to his summer party at his parent's hytte. I have also been out their a few time since for a couple of boy's only chill out nights. Let the good times roll!

As a parting shot of our sailing adventures, here is a shot of the sun setting on Saint John's Eve on 23 June 2006. This day is called Saint Hans Aften.

Courtesy of the world wide web:

St. Hans Aften is celebrated in Norway every June on the longest day of the year. On this day, barbeques are held featuring games and lotteries. Bonfires are also a main part of the observance. These fires date back to pagan days, and some superstitions surrounding them state that the bonfires will protect people from evil spirits and witches.