My Favorite Place: Bergen, Norway

 

A Beautiful Escape Above the Arctic Circle

     When people ask about my favorite place that I've ever visited, my mind immediately races back to one extraordinary stop I made while serving in the Air Force. It was a fleeting moment in time, yet the memories remain vivid, like a vibrant painting frozen in the frame of my mind. That place is Bergen, Norway, nestled just above the Arctic Circle. If you ever find yourself seeking a breathtaking experience, Bergen might just be the perfect destination.

A Glimpse into Bergen's Beauty

     Arriving in Bergen was like stepping into a postcard. With its quaint wooden houses painted in a spectrum of warm colors, the city immediately reminded me of the charming fishing villages I had known in New England. The air was crisp and clean, infused with the scent of the sea and the soft whispers of the wind. It was as if Bergen held a secret - a mix of nature's grandeur and undeniable tranquility.

     As I wandered through the narrow streets lined with rustic buildings, I was captivated by the picturesque harbor, where boats bobbed gently with the rhythm of the waves. The iconic Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stood proudly with its medieval Hanseatic buildings. It was astonishing to think about the long history encapsulated within those timbered structures, echoing stories from the 14th century.

Nature at Its Finest

     What struck me most about Bergen was the stunning backdrop of towering mountains and sprawling fjords. During my stay, I took a cable car ride up to Mount Fløyen, where the panoramic views left me breathless. The sight of the city nestled between the mountains and the sea was one that I will carry with me forever. The vibrant green hills and the deep blue waters formed a visual symphony that seemed almost surreal.

     With the sun setting over the fjords, casting a golden hue on the horizon, I found a moment of solitude that reminded me of the simple joys of life. It was a pristine moment where time stood still, and all worries melted away. In that serene atmosphere, I understood why so many people refer to Norway as the Land of the Midnight Sun. The magic of that experience is something I feel fortunate to have witnessed.

Culture and Connection

     Bergen is not just a feast for the eyes; it also offers a rich tapestry of culture. I had the opportunity to explore local markets, sample traditional dishes, and interact with some of the warmest people I’ve ever met. The lively fish market buzzed with energy, offering a delightful array of fresh seafood, local crafts, and regional delicacies. I found myself indulging in the local cuisine, savoring flavors that were both unique and comforting.

     Through conversations with local residents, I learned about Norway's deep connection to the sea, its history as a fierce trading hub, and the resilience of its people. Their stories added a layer of depth to my visit, reminding me that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about forging connections and understanding different cultures.

A Lasting Impression

     While my time in Bergen was relatively brief, it had a profound impact on me. The combination of natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming culture created a melting pot of experiences that I will cherish for a lifetime. It serves as a reminder that there are places in the world that transcend ordinary beauty, wrapping you in a sense of wonder that lingers long after you leave.

     In the end, Bergen isn’t just a favorite destination for me; it’s a cherished memory that I hold close to my heart. If you ever find yourself journeying through Norway, I encourage you to explore Bergen. Let its charm envelop you, just as it did for me, and discover the magic that lingers above the Arctic Circle. Whether you’re drawn to its stunning landscapes or its warm-hearted people, I promise, Bergen will not disappoint you.

Me and my art

Through the eyes of an artist

(A small bit about me)

       I have had a love for photography most of my life, but I never really did anything with it. I have traveled all over the world and God has blessed me by showing some of the most beautiful places on earth.  I never showed my pictures to anyone for several years, for fear that people would not like them, it was not until a few years ago at an artist retreat that I was encouraged by Cindy West (head of the worship arts department at Woodmen Valley Chapel) to share a couple of my best pictures. Well, the pictures were received very well by other artists at the retreat which was just what I needed to get me back to showing my photographs once more. This was God’s way of saying to me “Don't hide the gifts I've given you, I want you to show everyone the beauty of my creation”

      So with that in mind, I’ve created this section of the blog to share the beautiful things God has shown me. This section is ever-changing, so please come back often as it is my desire to always have something new for you to see "“Through the eyes of an artist".

Eric R Salter

Through the eyes of an artist

 

Through the eyes of an artist: One can see both real and created worlds.
Through the eyes of an artist: One can see a world of wonder.
Through the eyes of an artist: One can create and see amazing things.
Through the eyes of an artist: One can see both Beauty and tragedy.
Through the eyes of an artist: One can be inspired.
Through the eyes of an artist: One can inspire awe in others.
Through the eyes of an artist: One can bring joy and tears to others.
Through the eyes of an artist: One can see the beauty of God’s creation.
Through the eyes of an artist: One can almost touch the face of God.

     It is my hope that you will enjoy, be inspired and even moved in some way by what God has given me to share with all of you.

Eric R Salter

Streaming Wars

 

Conquer the Chaos of Entertainment Choices!

     Hey everyone! Let's face it, navigating the world of entertainment today is a bit like entering a jungle, except instead of vines, we're tangled with subscriptions and streaming services. Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Plex, Tubi, Pluto... the list goes on! And that's not even mentioning the good ol' cable networks like DirecTV, Showtime, and Cinemax.

The Streaming Jungle: Where Do You Even Start?

     With so many options, it's easy to get lost in the jungle of entertainment. How do you choose the best service? How do you even begin to decide what to watch? It's a constant internal debate:

The Budget Beast: Is it worth subscribing to multiple services? Can you afford it all?

The Content Craze: Which service offers the shows and movies you actually want to watch?

The Feature Frenzy: Do you need 4K resolution, or are you happy with standard definition? Is offline viewing a necessity?

Taming the Beast: Finding Your Streaming Savanna

     So, how do you conquer this streaming jungle? Here's a quick guide to help you tame the beast:

Identify Your Priorities: What's most important to you? Budget, content, features, or a combination of all three?

Research and Rank: Check out what each service offers. Look at pricing, content libraries, and features. Create a shortlist of your top contenders.

Test Drive (Free Trials!): Most services offer free trials. This is your chance to experience them firsthand and see if they fit your needs.

Don't Be Afraid to Ditch: If a service isn't meeting your expectations, unsubscribe and find a better fit.

And Then, The Big Question: What Do I Watch?

     Even after you've chosen your streaming haven, the ultimate challenge remains: what to watch?! The good news is, there's a whole world of entertainment waiting to be explored. Here are a few tips:

Explore New Genres: Step outside your comfort zone! Try a documentary, a foreign film, or a podcast. You might discover your new favorite thing.

Check Out Recommendations: Most services have recommendation algorithms based on your viewing history. Give them a chance, you might be surprised by what you find.

Join a Watch Party: Invite friends to join you virtually for a movie marathon or discussion. It's a great way to experience the joy of shared entertainment.

     So, embrace the jungle, conquer the chaos, and find your perfect streaming solution. The adventure awaits!

Colorado Fishing Paradise

The Arkansas River

     Hey everyone! I was digging through some old photos the other day and came across a treasure trove from a fishing trip with my brother Dave. These pictures instantly transported me back to the heart of Colorado, and I couldn't resist sharing the memories with you all.

     Now, I know many of you know I've moved to Texas, and while I love the Lone Star state, it just doesn't compare to Colorado when it comes to fishing (or hunting, for that matter). Colorado is home to some of the most incredible fishing in the world, with its breathtaking mountain scenery, crystal-clear streams, and stunning forests. It's truly a paradise for anglers.

     The pictures I'm sharing today were taken on the Arkansas River, just west of the Royal Gorge area, winding through Sheepshead Canyon. This river is a haven for rainbow trout,

with a few browns making an appearance as well. The best fishing happens in the early morning or late evening. The sun can warm up the canyon during the day, driving the trout towards the bottom and slowing the action down.

     The Arkansas River is a fly and lure-only stream, meaning no live bait allowed. Also, keep in mind that some sections are designated as "Gold Medal" streams, with a strict catch-and-release policy. But don't worry, there are plenty of spots where you can catch your own breakfast, lunch, or even dinner!

     Camping options abound along the river, with both paid and free sites available. Just be prepared for chilly nights, especially during the colder months. And always be aware of the potential for snow in winter and flash flooding in the summer.

     While the river isn't always crowded, some of the best fishing spots require a little bit of climbing to reach. The effort is definitely worth it, though! The only time I’ve seen it get really crowded is during the summer months when float fishermen and whitewater rafters come
through. They're usually gone in about 10 minutes, leaving the fishing to continue.

     This trip was a truly relaxing experience. I could spend hours by the river, casting my line and simply enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The area is also home to plenty of wildlife, including deer, bighorn sheep, and even bears and mountain lions (although I haven't seen those personally). I really miss this river and long to return someday.

     If you're a fisherman looking for a truly unforgettable trout fishing experience, the Arkansas River needs to be on your bucket list. You won't regret it!