Sometimes on work trips, visiting colleagues are entertained at the homes of the local ones. I’ve enjoyed hosting my international team here in Southeast Texas, which you’ve heard about before.
I absolutely love when it’s my turn to be in the natural habitat of a colleague and friend when I’m in their country, on their turf. Seeing their home, meeting their families and pets, getting opportunity to be a momentary part of their outside-of-work life and soaking up their culture is truly a pleasure and a gift.
One of my Norwegian colleagues has hosted me multiple times, sometimes alone (when I’m traveling solo) and sometimes with a group. Tom-Erik and his wife Anne-Grethe ooze gracious hospitality, making you feel as welcome and easy as a summer sunset. Although, the sun doesn’t really set in Norway in the summer… it just becomes the midnight sun, but that’s another story.
There’s always something delicious on offer when you vist Tom-Erik and Anne-Grethe at their home in Kongsberg. Today, I’ll share a memorable steak dinner with you, but first, I’d like you to see their glorious outdoor setting. (We always dine al fresco there in the summer.)
A Park-Like Setting in their Large Back Yard
Walk with me through this beautiful yard, and imagine the cool breeze of a Norwegian summer under that bright blue sky.
There’s a porch and a tiered patio, and the yard extends way over to the white picket fence 
Flowers and trees are everywhere 
Every space is charming 
…and more charming 
A gazebo invites you to inside and write sonnets, or sip wine 
Anne-Grethe and me, relaxing with wine while the men were cooking 
More flowers… 
Bearded iris against the fence 
There’s no bad angle in this yard, which is why I call it a park! 
I love the patches of flowers amidst the emerald grass
Tanya Portrait
And now, I’d like you to meet their dog Tanya. But first, the setup.
Daisies by the white picket fence – so tranquil 
It’s a perfect setting… for a portrait… who is willing to sit amongst the daisies? 
Go pose for us, Tanya! 
She did! 
A close-up of noble Tanya
Tanya is posing with the angels now and playing fetch with St. Peter, but will always, always be remembered.
Viking-Sized Steaks are the Headliner at Dinner
There’s always a snack to tide us over until the meal. Sometimes it’s Norwegian ‘waiting bread,” (grilled bread with butter and garlic), and sometimes just something crunchy. Look at how elegant they made popcorn, chips and beer look. These folks know how to entertain, my friends.
And now, let’s get to the main event: the steaks. Check them out as Tom-Erik grills and my colleague Chris, from the UK, is his wing man.
Tom-Erik is a master griller 
Those are Viking-sized steaks! The foil packs have veggies, thank goodness 
Potatoes are the perfect Viking side dish 
The steaks are done just right 
The vegetables make us feel better about our carnivorous selves 
The gorgeous plate, complete with a summer salad, is one for the ages – and check it out, there are multiple kinds of pepper! (I’m in heaven)
Every morsel was delicious. I can remember feeling so relaxed and happy, enjoying that grilled Norwegian summer dinner with colleagues and friends in that lush, green space. It was truly serene.
So, if I ever make it back to Norway, I’m going to show up at Tom-Erik’s and Anne-Grethe’s house with a bottle of wine and an appetite! I’d certainly rather be at their house than a fancy restaurant in nearby Oslo. I’m sure you can see why: the ambiance, the welcome, the company, the conversation and the food and drink. I’m happy just remembering it, and so very glad I took pictures!
More to Come
I have more to share with you about beautiful Norway…watch this space.
© 2021, Glover Gardens
