Moving to Norway Episode 5 - School Daze

[@sarahinscotland]

Videos like this feel rare these days. I really appreciate the realness of how you share your life.

[@TheModestMama]

OOoo its Sarah! Love your videos!!

[@TheStoryGuide]

Goodness, I really appreciate that you watched and took the time to write. Your work is so solid. Like Norway, Scotland has an abundance of beauty. It is a joy to see your work. And thank you for recognizing my point of view as a filmmaker. I would never want my stories to have a "Hey, dig me!" vibe. I try to be a little self-effacing, but also genuine when something surprising comes across my transom. As an outsider, I have the benefit of seeing our lives here from a viewpoint that is different from those who have loved this city all their lives. It helps me to understand where I fit in, and identify where I need to do a better job. As an academic, I tend to want to disentangle things in hope of gaining a better understanding of the "why" behind a story. The bottom line is, we love it here and I want to make videos that celebrate what is good, while also acknowledging the challenges. Thank you very much for watching and especially for taking the time to comment. It is appreciated. Take care.

[@Anirossa]

I'm an engineering student in southern Norway with ADHD and dyslexia. Without my daily walks in solitude I take out in the forest and by the ocean, I woudn't been able to handle calculus and physics the way I currently do, especially when the stress comes before exams and I am walking around solving exam exercises in my head and reasoning in my head how things works. The solitude, calmness, oxygen and heightened blood blow you get when out walking in peace lets me digest whatever problems you haven't quite figured out yet, and for other days it lets me give my brain a rest, so it's ready for the studying that comes after. For some courses I need the lectures, for others I just need exercises and my walks. I am always grateful for where I live when I get to enjoy the nature around me in peace, especially when it's something I've found that is necessary at times with how my brain works. Find you really capture how the walks make things better this video, so thanks for sharing, intresting to see it's not just me :D

[@Metalmassacre07]

Hvorfor legger du ut om dine patetiske problemer her? Taper.

[@wowwiz]

"Who cares about an old guy's personal life?" I do! These people obviously don't know what good storytelling is. I'm a 32-year-old Norwegian woman, and I discovered your videos when I was doing some research about the quarantine hotels during the pandemic. I don't remember if it was before my own quarantine experience or after, but I really enjoyed your way of making videos and feel like I've learned a lot. You seem like a genuinely nice person, and it's been great to follow you during your time in Norway. Congrats on completing your thesis! I hope you'll make more videos soon :) All the best to you and Darcy :)

[@TheStoryGuide]

Thank you for the well wishes. Mostly I included the comments because I was amused by them. Particularly the ones that appeared to have viewed most, if not all, of a video and then skewered it. I would ask myself, "why didn't they just leave? Who made them watch it if it wasn't what they wanted?" On the whole, the community on this channel is very kind and supportive. I am genuinely humbled by all the kind words. Yours included. Thanks

[@Level10Gamers]

I have been absolutely captivated by these videos, I love your editing, you storytelling and the story in it self! An absolute masterpiece and an inspiration! Welcome to Norway, hope you stay! Greetings from a little more south, Stavanger!

[@TheStoryGuide]

Thank you for the kind words and for watching. We are definately staying, that is if Norway lets us stay. In fact, we are beginning the process of purchasing a home here in Bergen. This is home. We can't imagine living anywhere else.

[@morildinho]

Im a native bergenser, this video randomly showed up in my feed. Sometimes we forget what a beautiful city this is, and this video reminded me. Enjoy the sunshine while u can! 😁

[@TheStoryGuide]

I was hoping folks would see that this a bit of a love letter from me to Bergen. I do think this is a pretty special town. Thanks for watching.

[@Yazurka]

I have no clue why, but for some reason I love this content! Perhaps it reminds me of the «slow TV» we Norwegians love so much. Keep up the good work ❤️

[@aetherspoon]

I started watching your videos while I was researching different perspectives on moving to Norway. Today, I also live in Bergen! I moved here a couple of months ago. Congratulations on your graduation!

[@TheStoryGuide]

Thanks for the congratulations and for watching. I have to admit, I laughed in your video about walking up hill. For two years that has been the story of my life. As I said in my story, the thing about Bergen is there is not much "flat" here. You are either going up or down. Shin splints or burning calves. 😀 Hope your adjustment to Norway is going well. If you have a question about process or bureaucracy just holler. Pretty sure I have struggled through most all of it. Best of luck.

[@ronnylov]

I can recommend my town, Trondheim Also. Not as much rain as Bergen :)

[@pku234561]

I liked your videos. To establish oneself in different country and very different culture is quite challenging. I know from experience since I spent several years in the US but now back in Oslo. We learn learn a lot about ourselves by stepping out of our comfort zone. Thanks.

[@TheStoryGuide]

Thank you for taking the time to share your insight. I agree completely. Each day I learn about myself, and the impact of my inculturation as an American. It affords one the opportunity to compare and contrast the shape of different societies and cultures - what each nation values, what each fears, and how each envisions the future. I feel I have a deeper understanding of myself by doing the best I can to face the daily challenge of living life to the fullest while adjusting to my new life. Bergen has become our home. It has not been an easy path, but for us, it is worthwhile.

[@Aros0321]

Congrats on graduating 🎉 I grew up in Bergen and moved to America to go to college (my dad's from here) 😅 Now that I've graduated too I realized I want to move back to Bergen, and I happened to find your videos not that long ago and they make me miss home 🥰 takk for at du deler din opplevelse!

[@TheStoryGuide]

Sharing these experiences are definitely a labor of love for me. I have always gone through life with a camera on me and a need to tell stories. I feel fortunate that we now live in an incredible town that lends itself to my point of view. I completely understand being homesick for Vestland. It is a very special place.

[@leah5133]

I grew up here in Bergen and I never thought much of it. Watching this series about your perspective on living here has made me so much more grateful and proud to be a Bergenser. Thanks for sharing your journey, I enjoyed every bit of it.

[@TheStoryGuide]

Hei Leah, I think for most folks, the place where you grew up does not feel all that special. The environment is little more than structural landmarks that are used the navigate the streets. With "new eyes" I have the opportunity to see things that locals may miss. I love discovering how architectural trends evolve; how urban development emphasis transitions from pedestrians, to cars, and now back to pedestrians; and how sudden changes like a fire afford the community an opportunity to reimagine the town. Using a long time-frame, I feel Bergen has done a wonderful job of managing change while holding on to the structures and traditions that form its identity. For us, that is the appeal. Like any town, there are bumps in the road, but the identity of Bergansers feels coherent and clear. Thank you for taking the time to comment.

[@Luredreier]

@TheStoryGuide Yeah, I agree with you. Trondheim has a longer history then Bergen, but we've lost so much of it, while they've kept theirs. Don't get me wrong. There's old parts of Trondheim too. But Bergen just looks like something else from what I can tell... Check out Kragerø?

[@marleythewizard]

your commentary on the weather (+ the uphill/downhill) made me giggle, but it is also on point. the real root of why we always small talk about the weather

[@TrinaLena]

Your videos always feel like a video from a friend. Thank you for showing your journey so far and congratulations on graduating!

[@TheStoryGuide]

That is perhaps the nicest thing you could have said. Thank you. And thanks for watching.

[@daniellindseth5352]

What's inspiring with your story is that we are never too old to make a change to our lives. But we have to take the chance and live with it and do our best to make the experience as good as possible.

[@terezahlucha4613]

This is lovely :) Back in December 2013 I took (and passed) the oral part of the trinn 2 norwegian language exam in a classroom 2-3 doors down the corridor from Drew's faculty office at Sydneshaugen skole. And I used to have another class 3 times a week on the 2nd floor of the same building. Brings loads of good memories. And congratulations on your thesis :)

[@TheStoryGuide]

The funny thing is, they still hold Norwegian classes in that room. One of my office-mates would wander out two days a week for class. Honestly, now that I am done I will miss that office. Great observation and I love that it brought back memories for you. And thanks for watching.

[@PiercedBrosmen]

I remember watching your previous episodes as they came out and loved your way of telling your story, so I was really pleased to see a new episode had arrived. It was fun to realize you live in the same area as me (I even saw my house in this video… twice. One of the newer ones, being only about 125 years old 😊) and that we walk some of the same streets each day. As a Bergenser it’s always interesting to see the city from the perspective of others, the things that have always just been normal to me. Great to hear you passed on your thesis paper and yes, I can relate to the feeling of numbness when something you’ve been focused on for so long is finally over.

[@TheStoryGuide]

Honestly, as a filmmaker I love that I can point my camera in almost any direction and the background will be awesome. Pretty funny that you found your house. If you see me out and about, please say "hello". My head may be focused on something else (as I mentioned in the video, I tend to mull things as I walk) so please don't wait for me to make eye contact. Just get my attention, as I love to talk with folks who have found these stories interesting. I learn from them every time. Thanks for taking the time to write such a thoughtful comment.

[@mariaberg3780]

Great to see how you are doing!I've missed your videos.So nice to see that you,your wife and the dogs enjoy your life in Bergen.What a sporty family!Wish you all the best.😊

[@vansan3211]

I very much cared! I just binge watched this whole series of yours unexpectedly. You're very inspiring. You can find countless videos on KZbin about the pros and the cons regarding any country, but you are a true storyteller -- a great one! I preferred seeing the country through your lens because it's unique and of course, it's your OWN experience. I'm a 38 year old woman who lives in the U.S., but I've been a flight attendant for the past 9 years, as is my husband. My hope is for us to be able to live in different countries for a few months out of the year, experiencing them more than a vacationing tourist might. We love our home here, as well, so I'm looking forward to spending more time split between beautiful places and amazing cultures. I hope you continue to enjoy living your amazing life with your amazing wife and silly fluffy friends!

[@idafjellberg]

Finally a new video!! Greetings from Norway to Norway! :D

[@iamthouth]

oooh, this made me homesick. I love the quality video, the framing, the scene setting and story telling. Thank you for posting again, and what a journey you've been on; from the uncertainty of being accepted, packing and moving, being in quarantine, finding your feet, having your wife join you, and now completing the thesis after all these months. Congratulations!

[@TheStoryGuide]

Thank you Tom. It has been a journey for us. Better than I ever imagined, even with the challenges and difficulties. It has been hard at times, but the rewards are incredible. I think if I ever had to leave I too would be homesick. And thank you for the comments on the production value. Amazing what you can accomplish with an iPhone. Probably 90% was shot with that camera. Thank you for watching.

[@X_ch4ng3]

Nice to see you posting again :) Congratulations on your thesis!

[@marcush.v3497]

Hehe I cannot belive my luck. I watched this series when it came out and now, today, I remembered that I had watched it and wanted to see how things went for you guys. Glad you have had a good time so far😁🇧🇻

[@jenc7945]

I'm so excited to see you've posted again. I was living vicariously through you and then poof! You were gone. haha Your story telling, both verbally and visually, are wonderful. It is unbelievable how people can be so hateful but then again, it's the internet and the people that make those comments are not happy in their own life so there's always something to complain about. As someone that lived a long time in Seattle and has dreamed of moving to Norway after visiting the country, it has been exciting to see your adventure. Congratulations on your thesis! I'll be looking forward to the next story.

[@TheStoryGuide]

Thanks for the kind words, but the trolls are amusing to me. Honestly, I had to search through hundreds of comments to find the five I chose. On the whole, this community is very good to me. One of my daughters commented that she has never seen a channel where the community is so supportive. I am always humbled by the fact that folks take the time to watch, indicate that the like it, and even take the time to comment. As I said, I started this project as a way to show my family why we are here, and share the bumps and celebrations along the way. The fact that others find it engaging and/or entertaining is beyond my expectations. These stories are a labor of love, little time capsules so I don't forget where I have been and how I felt. Thank you very much for watching and taking the time to reach out.

[@mybox-]

Thank you for this great youtube series! It's been really interesting to see your journey and you are so nice to share it with us with your great sense of storytelling! Really excited to see where it goes from here:) I will be along for the ride! Greetings from Oslo!

[@TheStoryGuide]

And greetings from Bergen. Great to have you along for this journey. I am sure there will be a few missteps as I attempt to navigate around unexpected challenges. I will do my best to tell these stories honestly, even when I am the reason there are problems. Thank you so much for watching.

[@lordjoni187]

Thank you for a new depiction of my city Bergen.

[@TheStoryGuide]

I do love this town. Being new affords me an opportunity to appreciate what makes it such a special place. Thank you for watching.

[@scottbelous8831]

Awesome video! Congrats on the thesis! Now you can travel and make more videos for us! 😃

[@irjan]

I really enjoy rediscovering my own town "through your lense". Thank you 🙂

[@jaffy4042]

insane production quality

[@TheStoryGuide]

Well thank you. I do appreciate it. Amazing what you can accomplish with an iPhone these days. Lots of color correction and AfterEffects also helps. :)

[@raztendo3540]

Im from Göteborg in Sweden, so I have always felt drawn towards Bergen. West coast, rainy, second biggest city….and so on. Love Bergen. And your storytelling made me sub at once:) Tack fra Sverige!:))

[@InvadersDie]

I just watched the series. The content is, technically, boring. But what a great watch! I don't know what it is you've done to make it so engaging to watch but I loved it. I play games and watch stuff on the side, this actually made me stop playing and just watch. My man, you have talent! Hopefully you keep filming and make more in time. Love it!

[@almost_harmless]

The man is alive. Glad to see you settle in, even if I do not know you at all, it somehow matters that someone I related to online is not stopping just yet. I guess I just appreciate the curiosity you possess and feel kindred to. Also; as I saw the last part of the video, please disregard the sourpusses out there. They are not the people you would want near you, and they do not matter.

[@irishbrat4u]

Absolutely loved this series. As a US based non-traditional student also considering a PhD at Bergen, I found your process very relatable and engaging. Congrats on finishing this huge educational milestone! I’d love if you added a few more videos about the differences you’ve both experienced and how your lives have changed since moving to Norway.

[@Dbass91]

I can only say, I feel honored and fortunate to find and watch your videos. Thank you for making a series like this!

[@Aliquis.frigus]

He's back!

[@claindastuart6790]

Hi. I just found tour channel. Just ❤ your videos 😊

[@kunilsen2519]

This is the first video I have seen from you, and this was such an interesting watch! Your use of music was impeccable and made this video such an easy watch. I also live in Bergen not far from where you seem to live. It was new seeing those places from your perspective. As I was born and raised here, this is just life. I always think every place has beauty to it, including Bergen, bad weather and all. And I love to just go around and admire nature and human structures as well as people just living their lives. Just observing life. This video felt like that. Your words just made me wanna listen as I observed everything you showed and how you have mostly spent your life in Bergen. This was very enjoyable and will definitely go and watch the rest of your journey, from the start this time. I hope your research will find lots of use :)

[@TheStoryGuide]

Thank you very much for your kind words. It means a lot that my stories resonated with you. We love our neighborhood, and the community of friends we see on the street. I especially appreciate the feedback on the music. It is often difficult to find selections that foreshadow, amplify, or support the point of a scene without smacking a viewer in the face. I am looking for music that you feel rather than hear, that is except when I use it as the narrative scaffolding with lyrics or montage. Again, thank you for taking the time to write such a thoughtful comment and for watching.

[@Daniel-yi1le]

Oh you have truly adjusted. You go out into nature, sit and relax somewhere and complain about the weather that you have voluntarily gone for a walk in. That's about as native as you get. First video i watch, gotten 3 minutes into it and your voice and mannerisms are very soothing! Love from Østfold (the other side)!

[@Daniel-yi1le]

And now that i've watched all of it, i can say that i enjoyed every moment of it. As a norwegian, the pro's and cons about living here means nothing, but another persons meeting with the culture is fascinating. The comments that are negative are most likely from the people that never reflects on themselves or actually go and do their dream adventure, so think nothing of them. "å kaste perler for svin" (To throw pearls at swine) seems to fit :)

[@tosolini]

Congrats Drew on the thesis and for documenting this life experience with such storytelling mastery

[@TheStoryGuide]

Paolo! Great to hear from you! Thank you for the kind words. We've had a lot of experiences over the last 13 years. Who would have guessed where the road would lead. Now I know a little better about life as an expat. Hope all is going well for you. I really like the AI/3d Maps prototype you are working on. Such a nice blend of AI, mobile and immersive experience. Looks really promising. Good work.

[@Fjokomo]

i am so happy people like you come to norway to show how beautiful this country truly is people are usually so ignorant when it comes to norway and how things are here i truly appreciate when people like you come around to showcase our beautiful nation and how tings are here :) hope you enoyj your stay her for as long as it maybe for we are truly blessed to have people like you coming here I wish you nothing but Happiness and good health and too those who says who cares about what an old guys personal belife is can go were the pepper grows as we say in norway :)

[@mr.borealis9460]

hello im From Sauda a place 4 hours from Bergen and I bet I can beat that view. it is nice to see that more and more ppl move here. Like my parents they moved here from Germany almost 23 years ago. I was born here and now am a Bus driver and factory worker in sauda. i wish you all the best. and stay safe

[@coldstreams]

Drew, your video series has been very interesting and very well done. You are a great story teller. I went back to grad school late in life (MBA age 41, MS in engineering age 54) and I also previously worked at MSFT. I regret that I had not known about international study opportunities. In fact, I had not traveled internationally until last year. Oddly enough, I was in Bergen in May (have spent 1.5 years studying Norwegian - both family history reasons and I like the language). Beautiful city! And oh - I have downloaded your thesis and intend to read it! Wishing you and your wife the best, what ever your future plans may bring you!

[@TheStoryGuide]

Thank you for the feedback. It is genuinely appreciated. I don't know if I ever would have guessed that I would head overseas for another graduate degree. That said, I a glad I did because it has been such a rewarding and life changing experience. I have had the good fortune to teach in universities for the past few decades, so I feel very comfortable in academic environments. But it was a huge adjustment being on the receiving end of the information. I was a bit humbled by what I didn't know. I had to keep reminding myself, "Hey, that's why you are here. You don't know it and you can learn it." I hope life is treating you well in the High Desert. Are you in Bend, Redmond, or elsewhere? I do love that country over there. Mt. Batchelor was one of the places I learned to ski as a kid. And years ago I spent a lot of time in the Sisters Wilderness. One of the earth's most beautiful areas. Thank you for watching.

[@coldstreams]

@@TheStoryGuide Redmond area :) I have worked in Redmond (WA) and now live in Redmond (OR). It confuses the heck out of ad delivery networks that still think I live in Redmond (WA) :) I too have taught dozens of university courses as an adjunct - and also taught many older students (people like us!) As a general rule, I found older students were a more worried about the experience of being back in school - but always did well. I had class teams where young students, contrary to what one might expect, sought out to be on teams with the older non-traditional students and appreciated their experiences! Of course, in addition to being an older student, you daringly did that in another country! Also - I am slowly making my way through your thesis. You write very well and, with my background, it's a fascinating topic to me.

[@ahsigum_Mani]

Thank you! You are a true inspiration - your logs are simply the best - you have truely mastered your craft. I am inspired to try out making vlogs someday. Congratulations on your academic achievement no mean fit and of all things in AI!!! I passed my youthful days and embarking on a new chapter in my life, I will look to what you have achieved for motivation!🎉

[@SirDuffBrain]

Really enjoy these videos. Fantastic storytelling and nice shots of Bergen.

[@LeNaInLoVe]

Congratz on your theisis, and being done with school....for now ;) Can't wait to see more of your adventures, and 🤞🤞and 🙏🙏that you're here, in Norway to stay.... 😘 All the best to you and your family from Arctic Lo-Ve Islands. PS. I'd love to hear and see you do a vid comparing Norway and the US, and what has been the benefits or pro's and con's if you will, to you living in Norway. A summary of sorts.🤔🤔 I trust you catch my drift 😀

[@TheStoryGuide]

We are staying. Bergen is home. As to a comparison video, I worry a little that it could be a bit polarizing. I certainly catch the drift, and while there would be lots to say, telling our story from a comparative perspective might be unwise. We definitely have clear reasons for moving here. The primary ones being Norway's overall philosophies of collaboration, respect, and communication. No place is perfect. But the approaches to self-governance and culture currently feels more coincidental to our beliefs. However, I think these observations are probably better shared over a beer or a glass of wine, rather than broadcast to 40,000 viewers. I don't do that format very well. But perhaps someday I will have a clearer point of view that merits exploration. Thank you very much for the very kind words and taking the time to comment. I really appreciate it.

[@LeNaInLoVe]

@@TheStoryGuide Thank you so so much taking time to answer.... Totalliy understand what you're saying. I'd love to take a deep dive into these things over a coffe or something else (do not drink alcohol much, so,... 'shrugs' 😜) either in Bergen or if you visit my part of the country. I've been a lot to the US and Canada over a 10 yr period, and seen, heard and experienced quite a lot. And by any means, I'd never say Norway's governing bodies are perfect. Just curious of nature, and you and your wife seems to be above average "level-headed" and able to give a more objective pov than many on the 'pro/con' side. Looking forward to your next post, whenever that may be. Have wonderful summer/fall 👋👋🖖

[@joeyslush8859]

This really gives me hope for my goal to move to Bergen in the future.

[@Metalmassacre07]

You are not wanted here, we are full thank you :)

[@Mannen302]

Love the videos. Slippery winters are the worst :D

[@TheStoryGuide]

So true. I find I don't bend the way I used to, and the slips and falls are sudden and unexpected. At first I resisted wearing brodders, thinking no one but the infirm used them After the second or third sidewalk yard sale (where I lay on the street with my belongings scattered around me) I figured that walking the streets of Bergen in winter was exactly what the phrase "Pride goeth before the fall" was all about. Thank you for watching.

[@harryvose6675]

So good to see you back, you've been missed. And the next chapter is......?

[@TheStoryGuide]

The next chapter is... selling the house in Seattle and moving (some of) our stuff to Bergen. Already shot, just not sure when I will have the opportunity to produce it. We'll see... Thanks for watching.

[@Luredreier]

​@@TheStoryGuideYou're making your life here permanent? That's good news indeed. :-) I'm looking forward to your view on the local elections. :-) (I have a feeling that you guys won't cover the actual politics, but I'd love to see what you think about the system and just the *feel* of the election) I don't think that you have lived here long enough to have voting rights in this election. I think that you have to live in a municipality for 3 years to have voting rights there as a non-citizen? So you two will get a chance to vote in the next local election, but not this years election. I could be wrong though. There's a lot of parties to look at. After all, at a national level there's 10 political parties represented. And I'm sure there's even more at a local level in a city as big as Bergen.

[@johannesofie777]

Glad you rescued the camera! 😂 I grew up in Bergen and have climbed down those hills from Fløyen many times, even walked up once or twice (I prefer Fløybanen). I now live in Skien in Telemark, the birthplace of Henrik Ibsen, so if you are over here, go to his house and see all the related sights.

[@ftbakke93]

Oh, it was so lovely to see you walk my everyday walk up hill to my home ( The tall orange one next to you on the top of the wall). I walked that way all my life up from kindergarten in Marken, Christi Krybbe Skoler and later UIB. It was always worth the "hike" at the end, but oh man, i still remember my parents struggeling to get me to go up all those stairs and steep streets and home with them when i was younger. Now i live in oslo, my parents still live on Skansen. I missed you on youtube, - welcome back! And congratulations on your thesis! incredible!

[@pmatzl]

Congratulations on completing your thesis. You had us worried. I've really enjoyed this series and was relieved when this episode appeared. In May I spent some time in Bergen with one of my children and one of my grandchildren. Your shots of so many sites that we recognize are letting us re-live our visit. Our apartment was on Blekebakken, about 100 meters from Skansedammen. We loved the narrow, steep, winding streets and the vistas during our commutes down the hill to downtown (emphasis on "down"). The return trip enforces a more relaxed pace, but is just as enjoyable. Bergen is definitely the most vertical city I've ever experienced! We also thoroughly loved the trails and park land at the top of the Fløibanen. What a unique feature for a city. I hope you'll be there long enough to produce some more videos.

[@bonnstersfm]

I'm not American but I do live in America and I do plan to move to Norway when the time is right! Will you upload more? Thanks for sharing!

[@TheStoryGuide]

Soon, Episode six is nearly done. Certainly within a week. Thanks for watching and the kind words.

[@KathleenOMoore]

Great story, interesting insights into Norway (& Bergen). Moving & living in Norway has always been a dream of mine (my mother was 'off the boat' Norwegian and I was born in Oslo but have only visited a bunch of times)...this was inspiring. Thank you!

[@CarlCreed76]

What a great video. Don't know why I was recommended it, but KZbin must know something I don't because I loved it! Jumped in on episode 5, so now I'll have to go back and catch up.

[@AdamTHFC96]

I have waited for an update on the hail Mary moving to Norway, congratulations on your thesis! Your journey and videos, how you tell us your story are like being infront of the fireplace with a blanket wrapped round you, cozy. Can't wait for the future uploads, take care!

[@wayneholbrook]

My wife and I absolutely loved all your videos. We live in the States, but she was born and raised in Norway. First and foremost, congratulations on your work. Will you stay in Norway or go back to Washington State? So curious about what you will do after being in Norway for almost two years. So disappointed in what you showed in episode 5 in reference to the comments. But I guess thats how some people are these days with Social Media.

[@TheStoryGuide]

Thanks Wayne for watching. To be honest, I get very few trolls. I had to really search my comments to find the negative feedback, all in search of something that would frame the joke (and wanting to diffuse the inherently egocentric nature of creating these stories.) The community that finds these stories resonant are kind and supportive. When I get constructive feedback I take it seriously and consider how I can do better. It is all good. As to the future, we are staying here. Sold our house in Seattle this week and we will be Bergansers for the foreseeable future. This will never be a travel channel, but once we get settled in I have a feeling the title will need to change from "Flytter til Norge" (Moving to Norway) to "Bor i Norge" (Living in Norway). We'll see. Thank you for taking the time to comment and for watching the series.

[@abdullahjamal3475]

Gratulerer drew :)) I stumbled upon your account earlier today,and I ended up binge watching all the five episodes haha. It was really entertaining and informative. Keep up the great work and don’t let haters get to you :)) Can’t wait to see more !!

[@edgartorres7092]

Nice to see you again. You made my day.

[@Wrootplonk]

"Who cares about an old guy's personal life?" I do, in the form that I find it very interesting to see the perspective on life in Norway from the point of view of someone moving from Seattle to Bergen, all the hoops and loops you and your wife (and dogs) had to jump through in order to make the transition (not to mention doing so in the middle of a global pandemic, no less!) and how you adjusted to life here. Congrats on completing your thesis, and look forward to seeing more content should it arrive.

[@dawnbecerra7072]

Thank you, Drew, for this great video. I was wondering how you 2+ were doing in Norway. I too, finished a thesis at a later age, and found a lot of the things you mentioned to be true. Mine was in Juchitan, Mexico, and so I had a bit less 'weather,' but many challenges. Please say hello to Darcy for me. So glad to see you two are health and happy.

[@nancyolesin9389]

Glad you’re not dead! Have you swum in the fjord and had a sauna yet? I did in September it was so much fun! Can’t wait to go back

[@zulem779]

I love how motivating this video is! Norway is my dream! And to see you moving in your adult life is very inspirational.

[@helga8439]

Fint å se denne videoen, bildene, dine refleksjoner. Jeg så de fire første og har lurt på hva som skjedde. Lykke til videre.

[@QuestionShizzle]

As someone whose entire life so far has been spent living in Norway I really appreciated this series! Love seeing Norway from someone else and enjoyed the way you told your story. And as someone who also finished their master thesis- CONGRATULATIONS! I certainly felt that same type of numbness once the thesis was handed in, you get your final goodbye and you're handed out into the world, leaving you with a "Now what" sensation. Hope to see you returning to Norway once again someday!

[@TVjoakim]

Considering a lot of people are interesed in how everyday life is in another country, I think your content fits very well on youtube for that purpose. I'm a Norwegian, so that doesn't really apply to me, but I still find it entertaining to watch your videos. The storytelling, the personality and really good quality filming makes it really interesting to watch.

[@AryanSneed]

I just found this mini series and binged all of the episodes. This was amazing and helpted motivate me a lot. Just wanted to say thanks and I wish you good luck and the best, much love.

[@yehzay]

Lovely to see you and whole family happy

[@ghaffir]

I have always loved Norway. Wonderful country. I am from Denmark and the best thing I know is sailing into Oslo Fjord and let the adventure start there.

[@AndreNeufeld]

Great videos - both in presentation and content. Moving to a foreign country is often much harder than people might think. Differences in culture, food and weather are not always easy to get used to. And then there are all the things you thought would be easy, that turned out to be difficult. Things that would be super easy to fix or get done in your home country, but here you have no clue even where to start. Luckily you learn as you live, and with patience and the right attitude nothing is impossible. Happy to see that things worked out for you, and congrats on graduating! Bergen is a beautiful city, and with people like you guys living there it's even better.

[@gersubarbosa]

I'm glad you're back! Loved your videos from the first one, and I cound't be happier to see you back. I have a dream to live in Norway someday, and your videos, your daily life and all the small things you show here keep this dream alive. Also, these ones really help me with my anxiety, believe or not. They are calming and very sutil to watch. I love it! Hope you keep posting. Greetings from Brazil!

[@snowgw2]

Stumbled across this randomly. I absolutely loved every minute, thank you for sharing your story!

[@martinenordb3766]

I thoroughly enjoyed your content and have watched all the episodes. It's fascinating to see someone explore my hometown, especially since I moved away from Bergen during my studies abroad. Thank you for creating such engaging videos showing the area and sharing your experiences!

[@gemini65ish]

Glad to see you are back :)

[@asbjrnknutsen8761]

WOW, been waiting an LOOOOONG time for this! but you did not disappoint! Brilliant! thank you so much for the update! LOve it!

[@MisterPjamas]

This old norwegian has appreciated your videos.

[@marita2g]

Congratulation on your thesis and graduation! I do love this videos. Seeing how you look at my country is amazing and so interesting. I hope you do more! Videos like this is so rare.

[@GwenMitchell44]

Drew, thank you so much for giving us a peek into your lives! Congratulations on this part of the adventure - it continues!! We miss you both. Gwen and Ken

[@gthegiant]

what a gem this series is :)

[@vonkultom]

Loved the video(s). Inspirational to see one going back to school in a different country at a later stage in life. And great to see Bergen and Norway from your perspective both the good and the bad.

[@glennura864]

This was a great video that gave an honest impression of Bergen. I grew up here, and I also study at the Universty of Bergen, so it was fun to see you walking the same streets and using lectures halls that I've done over the years. Hope you have many more good experiences in Norway :)

[@jamessmith6047]

Thank you. I just discovered your videos recently while looking to move to Bergen

[@llAdriennell]

What a well made video. I’ve missed these. Thank you for sharing with us.

[@fusedglass01]

Just found your series 8 hours after you posted episode 5. Once I started episode 1 I was glad I didn't have that wait you referred to between 4 and 5. My Great grandfather Migrated to the US from Norway and the older I get the more pull I feel to at least visit there. Thanks for the video very high quality.

[@TheStoryGuide]

The urban legend is there are more Norwegians in the states than in Norway. Not sure if that is true, but being from Seattle which has a solid history of Norwegian settlers, it feels pretty close to the truth. I appreciate that you invested the time to watch the series. Those are a lot of minutes in your life you will not get back. I am pleased to learn that you found them engaging. They are a labor of love.

[@gummibsen]

Drew, I love your stories and especially the journey to Norway; I have to say the noway sweaters fit you well. We now have one more thing in common, jumping on an airplane with a few bags to a foreign land to go to school later on in life. Love to ketch up when you are in Seattle. - Gummi

[@TheStoryGuide]

Gummi. I think about your journey often. It points me in ways of managing the challenges with grace and patience. Thank you for the kind words. As to the sweaters, I get really cold. Pretty sure the office at school didn't have heat. Or at least it didn't feel like it. On the plus side, the Dale factory and outlet store are only about 45 minutes from town. I'm uncertain if I have ever driven by the store and not stopped in and bought a sweater. Those things are bullet-proof. We were back in Seattle in March, and then again last month. We needed to get the house ready for sale. Home will be here, as we will buy a house and stay. Not sure when I will be back again. But with work, probably sooner than later. Keep in touch.

[@pal-espenandersen7635]

Glad your video popped up on my feed. Watched all your moving to norway series in one go. Your videos gives off a good and calm feeling. Your storytelling is very soothing. Props to you and your wife to take such an unorthodox turn in life, and move to norway to study. All best, greetings from 32year old norwegian.

[@Feilkalibrert]

So cool to see a new video after the long pause 🤩

[@sebastianmoraga4785]

Drew, it's Sebastian Moraga from MCDM. Thanks so much for your friendship over the years, and this great series. The liverwurst-cat food thing made me laugh out loud. Thank you for your honesty, good humor and patience as you shared this series with us. Hope to see you again someday.

[@TheStoryGuide]

Sebastian! Really great to hear from you. I so appreciate that you have reached out. Hope all is well with you and that you keep in touch. Are you doing any storytelling? Your voice as a storyteller is really good.

[@sebastianmoraga4785]

I appreciate the kudos. Things are going well. Just started a new job a month ago, after 20 years in journalism. I'm still in communications, but from the other side of the trenches, working for the state's DOT. Please let me know when you return to WA, would love to see you again.@@TheStoryGuide

[@miketomas8564]

What a Tear Jerker! Congratulations! I'm so very happy for your personal achievements...

[@AGz_MaGIXz]

I loved the series, watched everything in one sitting, and I enjoyed every bit of it! Congrats Drew ❤

[@susanowen1990]

I truly enjoy your videos. Looking forward to seeing more of your adventures!

[@rzr82]

What a fantastic video, one of the most well-produced vlogs I've seen in a long time. A pleasure to watch.

[@stighw]

As a Norwegian visiting Bergen 3-4 times a year, I appreciate this video. You nailed it! 😀👍

[@MrDustinremington]

Awesome video! I love the one liners (potato in the microwave) classic! hahaha . Drew, you are a creative and funny guy ! A pleasure to know you ! Fun to see... Thanks !

[@TheStoryGuide]

Dustin, I nearly fell off my chair when I saw your comment. What a surprise! Thank you for watching and thanks for all of your help these past few months getting the house ready for sale, and then, sold. You have been a lifesaver, taking care of us from 5,000 miles away. And I am glad you found my idle musings amusing.

[@MrGrus11]

This video series you've made has been really interesting to see. It's made me think about the things i take for granted living in Norway for example. Thank you for sharing your story

[@Ekinnajay]

Congratulations to you (and your colleagues) on finishing your thesis! It was also lovely to see my hometown of Bergen in all the weather. What are your next steps? Are you staying, I seem to remember this was just a temporary stay, or are you headed back? In any case, I look forward to anything else you post, because you are good at it.

[@TheStoryGuide]

We are staying in Bergen. It is now home. There will be more, although these videos are really complicated to produce so not sure how long before the next one. :)

[@eckpolmick5080]

Great videos. Super editing. This was my hometown.

[@krimke881]

This has to be the best real life in bergen report, on u2be from a non-native, living smack downtown the city. You're a good storyteller, and there where no wrongs and excaggeration.

[@SonOfViking]

Great to see that you've all settled in so well! Dørstokkmila er alltid lengst, men dere har tydeligvis tatt hatten på (for å blande to ulike uttrykk)!

[@ellesai7611]

I'm from Sweden, not too far from Bergen and I'm happy you're thriving! I hope you continue to enjoy your experience in Scandinavia and explore the neighbouring countries.

Love your videos. As a Bergenser I find it interesting to see how you experience Norway and Bergen. It's also very interesting to follow your journey moving to Norway and creating a new home with new routines here in Bergen. Fantastic storytelling, and film-making. So warm and friendly. Congratulations on completing your thesis. Hope to see more videos from you soon. All the best to you and Darcy!

[@Ciupremo]

Great job, it's nice to see this huge update! Congrats

[@donjohn8034]

I realllllyyyy hope we see more videos from your life in Norway! Love them! I'm from Portland btw