As others explore, we decide to stay

We made it. We are on an large island that was named by a Norwegian sailor called Snowland. There are many people here already but yet it seems very organized and civil. All 68 people from the ships that came over here made it. In fact, 69 total made it. I had the baby while journeying here. It was an extremely traumatic experience but I managed to give birth to a healthy young boy we named Bjorn, after Leif's heroic uncle who saved his entire household during an attack. Not only did Leif and I manage to find a substantial piece of fertile land located in the southwestern part of the island, not too far away form Thingvelir; the place where the annual Althing takes place. With Leif's notoriety from his early Viking years, he is hoping to get involved in the Parliament system here in addition to establishing a small farm and raising livestock.

I am extremely satisfied to be living here. After all the times we have moved, attempted to settle, and moved once again, I feel as though we are finally going to stay put for awhile. Many are concerned that Snowland or Thule is getting too crowded. There are even explorers who are going further west to explore new lands. I guess they have found two new lands; one known as Greenland and the other known as Vinland. There is a man, named Eirik who was banished from our island and as a result, resided in Greenland. When he returned, he encouraged many to move and settle to this fertile, unpopulated, island. Neither Leif nor I were interested seeing that this man was technically a criminal. We weren't about to fall for it. However, some did and we have yet to here back about the how they are managing. I have a feeling as though many were lost during the journey seeing that it was extremely long and dangerous. Also, many in Snowland are talking about this Vinland land that has white beaches, wild grapes, and rolling green hills. However, many are hesitant to journey there because there is word that the natives are extremely dangerous and the journey itself is too long.

Although many people are still interested in exploration, Leif and I are completely satisfied to stay here in Snowland and finally raise a family. Leif and I separated from our families and our ancestors and I, many times, question that decision. I don't think I realized the severity of my decision to join Leif to his expedition with the Great Heathen Army. I miss them and to be honest, don't even know where they are. It is one of Leif and I's goals to determine if we have family here on this island and if so, reconnect. Family is the most important part of our lives and as of now, we only have one another and Bjorn. It once again, is a new beginning. I hope this new beginning lasts.