Last day in Stavanger, Norway

We had another lovely, low key day in Stavanger.

We started out the day by walking into Stavanger. During our walk we come upon an interesting display. It was a tree covered in pacifiers. I am not sure what this represents.



We also saw the Sister City gift from Houston/Galveston.


When we came into the main square there were two huge ships docked in the harbor. One was the Queen Mary 2 and it was just a sight to see, amazing how large it is and the other, I think, was a cruise ship. Also in the harbor was a replica of the very first immigration boat from Norway to the United States. It sailed out in the early 1800s with 52 people on board, sailed for 93 days and a baby was born. When it arrived in the United States with all 53 passengers they were told they were not allowed on shore because they were overloaded. The ship was fascinating to see. I cannot imagine what that journey must have been like.




Next we visited the Norwegian Oil museum. It was actually quite interesting. Historically Norway has not been a wealthy country until the 1970's when they discovered oil. They are now doing quite well. The museum did a wonderful job on the exhibit.

Hannah and I had some free time, for the most part. We just wondered around the cobbled streets, took care of some business, strolled through Old Stavanger and played on many playgrounds. Some of the playground equipment is pretty fun and great movement for the children :)







Old Stavanger



In the evening we attended the "Texas Days" performance. It was another performance with both Houston/Galveston students as well as Stavanger students coming together. They all did a great job! Just so everyone knows, Ava is a beautiful and graceful ballet dancer. I was so proud! Here are some photos from the dress rehearsal.



Amy, here is the requested photo. I am glad you asked because I had to work for it and it would have been sad to come back without a photo with all three of us together!


Since it was our last day being in Stavanger it means that it is also the last day that I we have consistent internet. So, I am not sure when I will be posting again. For anyone that is curious our plan for the next few days is:

Take the ferry from Stavanger to Bergen.
Spend the night in Bergen
Train ride from Bergen to Oslo (I have heard that this is just a gorgeous ride and will ruin all future train rides)
Fly from Oslo to Stockholm where we will be spending the next chuck of time around Järna/Stockholm

Thanks for reading and we will catch you again soon!

Love,
Rachel and Hannah

P.S. This is for Mom...here is the Solberg dorm we stayed in while in Stavanger.