My heart is yours
This is the song that will represent Norway in the international Eurovision Song Contest in Oslo in a few months from now: my heart is yours performed by Didrik Solli-Tangen.
So are we hoping to repeat last year’s success? Well, I admit; it would have been nice. 
Wishing him the best of luck in May!
Thank You for the Music
As a young girl, this song was one of my best and most inspirational meetings with music. Not only does it have a beautiful harmonious melody, but its lyrics actually describes that special JOY that comes from listening to or performing music. I remember thinking it was brilliant; it was exactly how i felt. This song made me realize how much I truly enjoyed singing.
Also, I recall my admiration for the singer; both her beauty, her warm personality and wonderful voice. I really wanted to be like her. Watching this video clip, I still think she’s great (I guess some things never change).
What memories!
Who can live without it, I ask in all honesty:
What would life be?
Without a song or dance what are we?
This, I think, is a very good live performance of the song (must be watched on YouTube)
And here’s a more recent version, from the “Mamma Mia” movie. Not bad actually.
Summer Photos
A period of unusually cold weather has settled over southeastern Norway, with temperatures down to -28C the past week. Now that’s pretty cold.. and in other areas the temperatures have been even lower, so I thought perhaps we could all need a little warmth today. 
Here’s a small collection of summer photos. Remember the feeling of warm sand and tasty strawberries… mmm!!!
As long as there are trees
As long as there are trees, we will always have a place to call home
I couldn’t agree more. Trees are wonderful. A tree is a symbol of life, strength and growth, in most any culture throughout the world. Trees make us part of the ever changing seasons of nature. They’re firmly grounded, yet they never stop reaching for the skies. They provide shelter and shadow, they never judge, but listen in silence. Trees teach us valuable lessons of respect and gratitude, if only we have the wisdom and patience to listen. And although there are millions and millions of trees across the planet; not two of them are alike.
I’m gonna make myself a promise; to take more pictures of trees. All kinds of trees; in summery green, golden autumn colors or beautifully dressed in white. Perhaps I can contribute just a little in conveying to the world their beauty and significance.
An inspiring thought at the beginning of the new year.
Just Believe
Christmas is truly the season of magic. A time to rejoice at the miracle of baby Jesus being born into this world, but also to remind ourselves why we are here; to make a difference. To help each other see the light and wonder; for each one of us to become everything we were meant to be.
To reach for the stars, and remember that magic does exist, if we never stop believing.
“Be not afraid, only believe” Mark 5.36
My warmest wishes for this magical season! Hugs, Linda
A Word in the Sand
Words. I find them fascinating. Sometimes they get in the way. And then, at other times, they can be like music.
I have a collection of words that are special to me. I carry them with me; wise words, inspirational words, joyful words, powerful words. This very moment I’m trying to describe words – with words Which reminds me of these words by the well-known Norwegian photographer Robert Sannes:
“If everything could be described in words, we wouldn’t need photography”
How very true. For as much as I appreciate words, I don’t know if I could live without photography:)
Below is a combination of the two. Standing in front of this sandbox yesterday, with a small prayer candle in my hand, this was the word that came to mind. Not because my life is in any way perfect. But quite simply because this is how I feel, about life. About everything.
Blessings come in many colors.
Related thoughts May You Be Blessed
The warmest hug
The other day I overheard my boys talking about what they were going to do when growing up. Mr S, my 7 year old, did most of the talking. He couldn’t quite decide whether to become a scientist or professional race car driver. Mr C was sitting on the carpet, playing rather quietly with his toy cars, not saying much.
I walked into the room and sat down beside him. “So, what are you going to be when you grow up” I asked him, expecting the usual “firefighter” or “policeman” answer.
He hesitated for a second. “It’s a secret” he said, “But I can tell you if you’d really like to know”
“Of course, I’d love to” I replied.
“When I grow up” he whispered in my ear “I’m gonna be rich“
Oh dear, I thought; perhaps it’s time to have a little talk with my 4 year old about the real values in life, those that have little to do with money.
“You know, there are other things in life far more important than being rich -”
He looked at me, somewhat doubtful “But you’re not rich” he said “how do you know?”
Ok, I thought, here we go.
“Actually, I think I am rich because I have good friends, because I live in a peaceful country, with beautiful nature outside; because I have sunshine on my face during the day and stars shining through my window at night. I am rich when I get the opportunity to help others, or do some of the things I love doing; like taking pictures, and singing. And of course, being with you guys!”
I felt it was a good answer. But clearly, my son wasn’t satisfied.
“Mom, rich is when you have lots of MONEY!“
“I know” I replied “But we do have enough money to put food on the table every day, and to buy clothing when needed, and even a few toys now and then.”
He thought for a moment.
“No, you are not rich.” he insisted “You know why? Because if you were, you wouldn’t have a really old car.”
How do you argue with that?
“I guess you’re right” I sighed. “I do have an old car”
He nodded his head, happy to have made his point. But still, something seemed to be bothering him. Then all of a sudden his facial expression changed:
“That’s ok, mom” he said with a big smile “when I grow up, I’ll be rich for you”
Then I feel his little arms around my neck and his cheek pressed softly against mine. 5 seconds later he is gone, leaving me with the warmest feeling – not only on my cheek but also lingering in my heart.
Like I said; I am rich. How can there be any doubt about it
It’s magic!
Have you ever dreamed of flying? Here’s proof: you CAN fly – if you really believe it!
(And with a little help – I admit – from Photoshop
The Hero’s Heart
“Not the glittering weapon fights the fight, but rather the hero’s heart”
All you bad guys out there: don’t even think about it.. Any funny business – and you will have to answer to this big little hero
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