We are moving.....again.

After trying to settle in Novgorod and feeling as though we have not made any progress, Leif and I have decided to join close friends and journey westward in search of a place with many names such as Thule, Snowland, and Gardarsholm. Word is that some Norse seamen set sail westward in search of new land, new opportunity, and a new beginning. I also think they probably were fleeing from the power grip of King Harald Finehair. The land there is supposedly green, arable, and plentiful. When Leif asked if I would be capable of journeying once more, seeing that I am 6 months pregnant, I said yes. I do not want my child to be born a Rus child. Leif and I have already left our ancestors, homeland, and family. It is yet again, an opportunity to start anew; with Norse friends and maybe even family. I am not sure where my family is or what their plans are. However, I know that many Norse men and women who have been trying to settle in the British Isles as well as Norway are making the attempt. We are ready to settle in a land that still has vast amounts of fertile farmland. We are ready to settle in a place where we can make the decisions, laws, and rules. We are ready to live our lives rather than following in the shadows of others.

In order to make the journey westward, we have prepared, planned, and organized. Our friend, Olaf Eyjolfsson, has a cargo ship that he proudly prepared to use for the journey. There will be four cargo ships leaving from Novgorod tomorrow. The total count of people planning on going is 68. This includes men, women, children, aunts, uncles, grandmothers, and grandfathers. Two families have decided to have their youngest sons stay in Novgorod and maintain their ancestors’ graves. Although the sons are saddened to see their immediate family leave, they are excited for the opportunity to maintain their families land and make a name for themselves. We, meaning the women, have made extra clothing for the journey, dried plenty of meat for food, and determined what important family objects to bring. The men have sacrificed numerous of the larger animals for meat, gathered many of our longhouse oak pillars for our houses when we arrive, and mapped out our course. Apparently there are some islands along the way that are supposedly covered with sheep and as green as the grass in Viksfjord during the summertime. Once we pass those, we are supposed to begin a northwestward course once we hit land. I sure hope we get there. I am tired of moving however, I am excited for a new beginning….once again.