November. So.Very.Dark

We had heard that November can be the toughest month living in Norway. And as we endure make it through experience our second November here, I have to agree.

The days are short. Right now sunrise is around 8:25 AM and currently sunset is at 3:45 (15:45) in the afternoon.

The [lack of] daylight is not really a problem once it is colder, because then we have a good chance of having some snow. And snow helps brighten things up. But lately our high temperature has hovered around 5 C (41F), without much of a dip at night. Add to that the fact that it has rained almost nonstop for at least the last two weeks, and it can be a little depressing.

But then again, chilly wet weather in November means
~more opportunities for coffee and hot chocolate
~more chances to slow down and just chill a bit
~Christmas isn't too far off! We are beginning to see signs of the holiday season in our city.

And November also means Thanksgiving, and my (Jenn's) birthday...

And occasionally other fun surprises. (Stay tuned)

So even though it isn't the most glamorous month, maybe November isn't so bad after all!

Lights in the city - this was around
4:30 in the afternoon two weeks ago!

Celebrating my birthday with friends - fun!