Anni-Blogiversary

Today is a very special day. Not only am I on this day embarking upon a solitary pilgrimage to the land I was born, it is also my eight wedding anniversary, AND the first anniversary of my blog. I have lived up to my promise of posting scattered and infrequently, and met a lot of very interesting people along the way.

I was inspired by Amelie to pay multi-homage to those who have impacted me over the years:

First of all, to the love of my life, my soul mate: you're the compass to my true self. Without you I'd constantly get lost in this chameleon’s skin. You made it safe to stop being “big strong H” and just be. You will always be my best friend. I love you big bear – happy anniversary!

My very large, very multi-faceted, and very loving family: You are a perpetual inspiration! Dad instilled in me my interest in books and learning, my wanderlust and hunger for adventure, which ultimately led me to my new homeland and my love. Dad, you will always be my hero, even though I haven’t been able to show you how much I appreciate you the last few years. Mom – I keep trying to add more of your sweetness into my life. Nobody knows the pain you have known while putting forth your brood of quality citizens of humanity. I will always love you.

Friends who mean the world to me: Veronique – your porch, not to mention you house ☺ has become my second home… literally. Joy – your vibrancy and artistic vein always inspires me. Claudia – we might not talk every day, but I consider you one of my dearest friends. Renee – your photos and detailed accounts of your happenings remind me of the significance of recording what is important in life. Mona – getting reconnected with such intelligence is an honor.

I want to thank my junior high teacher, Liv Burum for encouraging my writing, even though I was reluctant at the time. Other teachers, starting with Margaret in the 2nd grade, all the way through my years at university, thank you for accepting my late papers and not reducing my grade more than one (sometimes two) letter grades due to tardiness.

I also want to give a shout-out to Nils and Morten for giving me my blogger name and making life a little more interesting growing up, as well as Anne Christine for coming up with the greatest quote of all times.

Last but not least, to my fellow bloggers: Bottom Buzzer – your encouragement of novice bloggers such as myself helped me out a great deal in the beginning. Grete – you always write such thought provoking and reflective texts. Karina – you remind me to look on the bright side. Pearl – I’ve never met anyone more productive – the sheer volume of quality you put out daily blows me away. Buffy – you are an incredible writer and if I some day could come even close to touching what you do I would consider myself an accomplished writer. Can’t wait until your novel comes out!

Honorable mention goes to facebook, for reconnecting me with some of these outstanding individuals.

Thank you, thank you very much.
*taking a bow*