One month left.

There’s just one month left before we move out of our beloved home in Hurdal, and our cozy little house is getting new life. We couldn’t be luckier with the people moving in. Two of our dear friends are leaving the heart of Oslo to live here, surrounded by trees, birds, and stars. They're bringing along Frank, their French Bulldog with a big personality. We're curious to see how it all goes – but we have a good feeling. We think they’ll love it here.

Frank will be making new friends too – our two elderly cats and five hens. That’s another situation we’re curious about! But we’re breathing into it all, letting go of control. This year will be a special one for everyone.

Back in February, we wrote about a family we hoped would be a great host for our dog Akira. And it turned out they were the perfect match! They’re a warm-hearted family of five with a beautiful Samoyed of their own, and we’re sure Akira will thrive. The two dogs already seem like a great fit. It brings us so much joy that these pieces have fallen into place.

And in the middle of all this transition – a small, beautiful everyday moment: one of our dearest neighbors came by to pick up some eggs. (How lovely is that?) She also borrowed one of our fermentation jars and a cookbook to use while we’re gone. It feels so good knowing that our things will be in use even while we’re away. Then, to our surprise, she handed us a gift – a book called Midtens rike by Torbjørn Færøvik.

This book traces the fascinating history of China, from ancient dynasties to modern times. Færøvik brings the country’s complex past to life through storytelling, travel, and reflection – a perfect gift right now, as we prepare to experience China firsthand. I’ve always loved history, especially when I get to walk the land, breathe the air, and be in the story myself. What a meaningful, thoughtful gift. Moments like this make me realize just how much I’m going to miss my sweet friends and neighbors in this little village.

Over the next few days, I’ll be putting out a few boxes in the garden with things we want to give away or sell at a small price. It feels good. Winter clothes and anything we won’t need over the next 30 days is being packed down now. Some furniture is going too. The house is slowly emptying.

We’ve started writing packing lists and gathering the few things we still need. The plan is to pack light – just enough for about a week – and do laundry along the way. I trust that we’ll find what we need as we go. That’s part of the adventure.

We’ve had quite a few vaccines lately – rabies and dengue among them. I also had to update polio and hepatitis shots. We all got Qdenga, the new vaccine recommended for dengue fever if you're staying long-term in certain high-risk countries during the rainy season (like Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam). Bjarne had a pretty strong reaction about a week after the first dose, but he’s still advised to take the second one. We’re scheduling it a bit earlier this time so the doctor can follow up if it hits harder. The kids have become brave little vaccine-takers too – we’re proud of them!

We’re also booking tickets and planning logistics for China. It’s wise to be early – we’ll be there during the Chinese summer holidays, so we expect lines and crowds. At many attractions, there are three lines: one for locals, one for people from other provinces, and one for tourists. It will be hot – very hot – and rainy. August is both peak summer and typhoon season in many parts of China, so we’re keeping that in mind. Some attractions might suddenly close due to extreme weather.

I’m very, very excited. A little nervous, too. But mostly grateful.

Written by: Miriam