First Week Check in, Studies, Museums and Supa – August 2025

Well, I said I would do it, and for once I’m actually making efforts to follow through. I’m going to be on my computer studying or working on papers, so I can always take a 20min break to blog or write creatively.

The Edda Building, where much of my studies will take place.

It’s a lot of changes moving to a new country; figuring out your apartment, your new grocery store, new bus routes, making mistakes and having to improvise my way out. I really do love how much being a Winnipegger has truly prepared me for the worst.

My parents’ running joke was ‘You’re not moving to a third-world country, anything you need you can get.’ The crazy part is that growing up in Winnipeg, with regular trips into the Interlake has helped me prepare for much worst conditions than Reykjavik. The best description I’ve heard about Iceland is that it is a city-state, and I can’t stop thinking about that.

Adjusting our diet is a very real change, we simply do not have the same access to the same products, not just what is available, but what I can afford. Figuring out how to make my preferred meals with local ingredients, that is the true immigrant experience.

Lamb Soup – Kjotsupa, meaning Meat Soup, assuming the meat is lamb.

Frozen Lamb chunks, added to water set to simmer with seasoning, herbs, bouillon and aromatics (Leek, onion, garlic, carrot). My secret is adding any wine or apple cider vinegar, which balances the entire pot. Then after 2 hours, add remaining vegetables (potatoes, maybe spinach chopped finely). Simmer until meat is tender, fat and gristle has melted, season accordingly. Serve with hot sauce, fresh herbs or even plain skyr. Often I add lemon juice right at the end.

For the Reenactors

I FINALLY was able to visit the National Museum of Iceland (I was sick during my second week of the Snorri Program and missed many days to go to the Museum). So I have a full field day to explore, take pictures and will be returning many more times.