I think it would be well, and proper, and obedient, and pure, to grasp your one necessity and not let it go, to dangle from it limp wherever it takes you.
-- Annie Dillard
I am a writer.
After six years behind a desk in an insurance office, I took a leap of faith, hoping that with time, dedication, and the support of my husband I could achieve my lifelong dream of writing for a living.
Our move to Norway in 2011 accomplished many things. It gave us the chance to see the world from a different perspective; it allowed us to travel more frequently and easily to exciting European destinations; it put us in contact with some of the most fun, adventurous, talented people I've ever known. But best of all, it inspired my writing life, giving me the time and energy to do it again.
This blog began in 2005 as an outlet for my creative energy. Reading those early posts over now makes me cringe. I didn't know what I was doing. Opening my mouth and letting the words fly out, certainly, but without any method or goal. That said, what I love about the blog now is the way it maps so accurately the trajectory of my life with words. I can see my personal evolution, in mind, body, and spirit. As well, the blog serves as a journal and travelogue.
Since moving to Norway, I've completed two master's degrees (and MFA in Creative Writing from Lesley University and an MA in English Literature from the University of Oslo). Jonathan and I decided to start a family (Camp Camp was established in 2015 with the arrival of the Hazelnut). Then we bought an apartment in our favorite neighborhood. I continued freelance writing and part-time teaching until last summer, when I took a full-time job writing for Cognite, an exciting young industrial tech company out to change the world.
Jonathan and I still wander and explore our new city, new country, and new language together. Though slightly dormant, The Girl Behind the Red Door continues to be a resource for others living or wanting to live in Oslo. Sharing the life and mistakes and lessons of a first-time expat, giving others access to this beautiful Nordic country, has helped me make some wonderful friends along the way.
I don't know what the blog will look like next, but I'm excited to return to it. I hope you find something here that inspires you or answers your questions. Leave a comment and let me know!