Its funny to come to another country like Norway and have an “outing” to a familiar place…like Ikea.

So yesterday the event of the day was the trip to Ikea. And apparently here it is a big deal to go to Ikea. There are special bus stops around the city for the “Ikea” bus. And yes, it only goes to Ikea. There was standing room only for the 15 minute ride.

When we arrived we went to the buffet to eat first. I was excited to have Swedish meatballs and mashed potatoes AND free refill on diet coke (that was very exciting). The dining room at Ikea’s buffet was huge and it was filled with families. I am told that this is a very common family outing - to Ikea - where you shop, the kids play and you eat.

Then we went shopping. And it was just like at home. It was interesting to see…because it was exactly the same. But then back to wait for the Ikea bus to take us back to the city center. It was an interesting experience, mostly because of the big ordeal it seemed to be. And hey, I’m always happy to get free refills on my drinks!