Part 1: Reflecting on the Year of Change
2024 has been nothing short of transformative. It began with a sense of renewal as I moved into Bekkrbua, my cabin in the woods, and cleared out my old apartment in Stavanger—a symbolic goodbye to a chapter filled with struggles and limitations. From saying farewell to the old Knotten to embracing the adventures of the new Knotten, it’s been a year defined by change, challenges, and growth.
One of the most significant chapters of the year unfolded in Germany, where I helped my ex and best friend, Kaddy, prepare for her move to Norway. This journey not only reaffirmed our friendship but also marked the beginning of a new chapter for both of us.
This post is a reflection on the first half of my year—of endings, beginnings, and the road that has taken me through change and new opportunities.
Clearing the Past: Saying Goodbye to Stavanger and the Old Knotten
In February, I faced a major milestone—clearing out my old apartment in Stavanger. It wasn’t just about decluttering; it was about shedding the weight of a chapter that had been filled with struggle, depression, and a sense of being trapped. Let’s be honest—letting go felt like lifting a massive burden off my shoulders. It was a moment of freedom, one that set the stage for everything that came next.
After some searching and deliberation, I found the new Knotten—a van that is better equipped for the adventures ahead. This new version marks not just an upgrade in terms of reliability but also a deeper connection to the road and the lifestyle I’ve come to cherish. It’s more than just a vehicle; it’s a space where I can once again feel at home, whether I’m parked in a forest or on a coastal cliff.
A Journey to Germany: A Summer of Change
This summer brought another significant chapter as I traveled to Germany in mid-May to help Kaddy, my ex and one of my best friends, with her move to Norway. This trip wasn’t just about logistics—it was an opportunity for us to properly end our romantic relationship in a respectful way while also solidifying our deep friendship.
In Kiel, we embraced the chance to spend time together as friends. The dogs, Ludde and Peachy—our inseparable companions—were thrilled to reunite and explore together. Beyond the move, Kaddy showed me more of Kiel than I’d been able to see during my brief visit in November 2023, and I had the chance to meet her friends in person. Their warmth and hospitality transformed what could have been a stressful process into one filled with gratitude and camaraderie.
While in Germany, an unexpected twist occurred: my Nikon F90x’s battery grip broke, leading me to pick up a secondhand replacement. I’ll dive deeper into how this sparked a renewed passion for analogue photography in Part 2, but it was a turning point in my creative journey.
The Road to Nordkapp
From Germany, Kaddy and I set off together in our respective campers, heading north toward Nordkapp. The road stretched endlessly, offering breathtaking landscapes and moments of shared adventure. Along the way, we had the chance to meet up with both my parents and Kaddy’s parents, who were vacationing in Norway at the time. These moments of connection added a personal touch to the adventure, blending family ties with the freedom of the open road.
In mid-August, we reached Nordkapp, where Kaddy and I parted ways. She continued her journey toward Tromsø to begin her new life, while I turned south to make my way back to Jæren. This marked not only the end of our summer travels but also the symbolic conclusion of the journey we had embarked upon together in April 2023.
Before returning to Jæren, I made a brief detour to join my parents for a visit to Blaafarveverket in Modum to see their annual art exhibition. This was a refreshing and inspiring pause before I turned my focus toward settling into Bekkrbua.
For the first time in years, I decided to skip my usual autumn trip, realizing that it was time to prioritize building a foundation at Bekkrbua and preparing for the next chapter of my journey.
Looking Ahead
As I reflect on the first half of 2024, I’m struck by how much change has taken place. From clearing out the old to making space for the new, this year has been a testament to growth and transformation.
If you’ve enjoyed this part of the story, there’s so much more to come in Part 2. I’ll dive into the process of settling into Bekkrbua, my rekindled passion for analogue photography, and the creative projects that have shaped the second half of the year. I hope you’ll join me for the next leg of this journey!
But this journey isn’t just mine—so many of you have been a part of it, whether we’ve crossed paths on the road or connected online. Your encouragement, support, and shared stories have been a source of inspiration, and I’m endlessly grateful for this community.
