5: Stranded Thoughts: Between the Mountains, You Find the Dal

Stranded Thoughts: Between the Mountains, You Find the Dal

In this short reflection, Anne shares the meaning behind the Norwegian word dal – valley – and how this quiet, powerful landscape continues to shape her life, her knitting, and her sense of freedom.

Recorded during her visit to Setesdal, one of Norway’s most historically rich regions, Anne explores how valleys give shape to mountains, and how being nestled between them brings both perspective and peace. She reflects on her deep connection to the mountains and the hidden meaning behind names like Hemsedal and Setesdal, which are more than just destinations – they're stories.

This episode is a quiet walk through language, memory, and meaning – an invitation to pause and notice the places that hold us, shape us, and inspire what we create with our hands.

Mentioned in this episode:

• The meaning and use of dal in Norwegian place names

• Hemsedal, Anne’s beloved mountain home

• Setesdal, a valley rich with Viking and Iron Age history

• The feeling of standing in a valley and looking toward freedom

• A quiet hint of a future knitting pattern inspired by Setesdal