Tromso, Norway

I had my review at work today. My very, very performance-based review. I'm happy to announce that I can officially perform.

Although my raise hardly catapults me into Lexus or first class territory, it is substantial enough for me to consider a well-planned, budget-conscious indulgence.

I want to go to Tromso, Norway. No, let's make that Tromsø. I love Scandinavian letters with dots over them or lines through them.

Although my time in Sweden was in ways far from idyllic, Scandinavian seeped into my soul like it had been waiting for me all my life. I'm not finished with it.

Tromso, Norway is the world's northern-most college town. There's lots of culture, friendly taverns, an intellectual atmosphere, extreme climate, northen lights, 6'5 blonde Norweigan men and maybe even the occassional polar bear. What's not to like? In my fantasy I travel there alone and encounter all of the aforementioned (except maybe the polar bear). If I could experience the northern lights in the arms of a rugged, intellectual viking (hey, it's my fantasy...)I would feel more alive in five minutes than I have in the past decade. I might even settle for a repressive Swede who sends me home before New Year's...nah. Let's start over.

After my viking and I experience the spirtual magic of the other-worldly chromatic wonder, we trudge through the snow in 10 degree weather (Tuscany's all yours), the gale-force winds blowing back our hair. What I see next is a contemporary yet elemental Scandinavian dwelling, featuring a roaring fireplace and nothing else I am going to share with you.

Chances of any of this happening? 5% at best. But it's nice to know that at least the funding for far-fetched fantasies is somewhat within my reach.

http://home.online.no/~bennett/Tromsoe.htm