Fire and Ice

We come from the land of the ice and snow,
from the midnight sun where the hot springs blow. 

Almost four years ago, a volcano in Iceland erupted, sending clouds of ash straight to Europe, resulting in the cancellation of over 100,000 flights.  For many of us, it was an introduction to the Icelandic language, as we tried to pronounce the name of the volcano:  Eyjafjallajokull.

There are 130 volcanoes in Iceland, the most famous being Hekla and Katla.  Lava rock decorates the landscape here, at least when it's not covered in snow.

On the other extreme, the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull, is in Iceland.  It is also the third largest glacier in the world.

I am in love with fire and ice.

Iceland has, bubbling beneath the ground, geothermal hot springs.  Ever resourceful, Icelanders have figured out how to heat their homes and water using this precious gift.  During our time in Akureyri, we saw the insulated pipes that carry the boiling water downhill to the lower communities, where the heat is regulated to make it safe for the homeowners.  On the other extreme, if you turn on the tap for cold water, you will be rewarded with the coldest, purest water that has ever passed your lips.  Fire and ice.

Mountain and ocean.  Night and day.  North and south.  Joy and sorrow.  Good and evil.  Love and hate.  Fire and ice.


The duality of opposites.  I embrace it all.