Saying Goodbye to Trondheim...for now

view from Gløshaugen (science and engineering campus)

Our last weeks in Trondheim were bittersweet as we tried to savor the last of the beautiful summer scenery and spend time with loved ones before departing for the U.S. Three years has flown by, yet at the same time when I think of all that has happened and how we have been changed- it is remarkable how much God can do in only three years.

Brett and I were blessed to be able to have some time to reflect on our experiences living in Norway after we returned from Italy and before attending the annual Students for Christ conference (Connect '09- see entries below!) in Brussels. When we returned from Brussels, we jumped right into the first week of arriving freshmen students. We had a group of students help us to share about Quest at the freshmen orientation in which they experienced many God-given connections with new students interested in getting involved.

It was a great chance for us to pray for what God has in store for the students of Trondheim this next year. Of course it was also difficult knowing that we were not going to be there to be a physical part of it all. We were encouraged though, watching our students boldly introduce themselves to new students and show enthusiasm for the community that God has brought together.

Immatrikulering= freshmen orientation

one of many beautiful Trondheim sunsets (from outside our apartment) lasting hours into the night

Brett and I took a biking camping adventure for one night- was really tough, but a worthwhile adventure!

Chuck and Sally Haavik were in Trondheim from the states for a few days after Brussels and invited many of our good friends out for a nice dinner

Day Before Departure- Goodbye BBQ

Some of our key students (and dear friends) who were freshmen last fall and have really been transformed by God through Quest

My good friend Tea- we have many wonderful conversations about life, God, and faith (still talking on Skype!)

Some of our favorite people- we are blessed! Many tears this day...

Hanging out at our close friends' house (OJ and Annette) our last night (we rented their upper level with Kelly our first year in Norway and stayed with them our last 2 nights in Trondheim)- was meaningful to spend it in a familiar, relaxing way with them and Kelly, Magnus, and Linn Cecilie

Our "Team", more accurately family, of 3 years- We love and miss you Kelly! (Kelly remained in Trondheim to continue working with Quest- we are continuing to hear great things!)

Me and Annette- we will miss her and OJ and their adorable little boys! Our last night in this place, spending it with them had a little bit of the "coming full circle" feeling to it.


Needless to say, the next morning was a difficult ride to the airport at 4am. I cried the whole way there! But I have to remind myself that it is the tears that are evidence of the love that we have experienced in that place, the relationships that have shaped us. If there were no tears, no breaking of our hearts to leave, we'd have to wonder if it was all really worth it. Thank God that there is no doubt about that.