My life can get busy. Balancing a full-time job with hobbies and then keeping up with friends scattered all over the world can be a challenge, even if it is a rewarding one.

One of these long-distance friends is Heidi, who lives in Oslo with her partner, Axel. I’ve visited the two a few times, but I boarded this particular plane to Norway with an extra dose of excitement, as I was flying out to meet a new addition to their household: their new baby girl!

Despite the cold weather, the few days I spent at Heidi and Axel’s were full of warmth: settling into their home life and accompanying the young family was a refreshing break from the stresses of high-paced city living. It was a joy to watch them as first-time parents and then be reunited with their friends and family that I’ve met over the years.

Then there’s the location: Oslo is a capital city unlike any other I have visited, unmatched in its chilled vibe fuelled by cozy spots in which to kick back and watch the world go by. I visited the city’s awesome new library, we met up with family and friends by the waterfront for a bite to eat, and we made the most of the city’s aforementioned bars and restaurants to spend some quality time chatting together.

With Heidi and Axel’s wedding just around a year away, I felt honoured to be able to spend some quality time with the couple and their new bundle of joy before the big celebrations begin!