Norway: 17th of May, Independence Day

Independence Day is a pretty big deal in Norway. We started the celebration the night before at the annual 16th of May soccer game in Bergen. A European soccer game is like no other sporting event experience. It was awesome. It was fun to watch Beate get so into it. She could hardly watch penalty shots against her team. In the end, Bergen's team won! Brandon saw most of the game, but his view kept getting obstructed by the guy next to him who slowly made his way in front of Brandon as if he wasn't even there. The guy didn't seem to notice or care that Brandon could have rested his chin on the man's shoulder.

Here he comes. Starting to creep into Brandon's personal and viewing space to make room for the extra friends they added to the row who don't actually have seats there.

Brandon's view after the slow creep over. Eventually Brandon squeezed his way back into position forcing the dude back to his space.

On the 17th, the town came out to the main square for a parade and carnival. Residence dress in traditional clothing that represents the town they come from. Beate and the kids looked so good. People watching was fantastic (Oh, and we happened to run into the guy from the soccer game who stood in front of Brandon. What are the odds of that in a gathering of thousands of people!!) Most everyone is dressed in Sunday best or some other traditional attire (red overalls for seniors close to graduation). The town was one big party. My favorite part was the licorice. All types of imaginable and unimaginable flavors of licorice are sold as part of the celebration. So good. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. I've never tasted better licorice. It was fun to be part of and witness the Independence Day traditions of another country.

Sour Strawberry - Soooo Good!

For all you Friday Night Lights fans  - it's a Norwegian Buddy Garrity. Brandon spotted him. He's acting like he's taking a picture of me, but he took it of this guy instead

Children in the parade