Day 28: Marianne Haaland

Marianne is the coolest Norwegian friend I have! Technically, she is the only Norwegian friend I have, but that does not cancel her coolness. She is lovely, talented, kind, and so dear to me.

We met in our theatre class in college. She was intriguing to me! Blonde, beautiful, young, married, and Norwegian. I wanted to know about her. Who was she? Who was her husband? How long had she lived in America? Eventually she and I became great friends and I got all of the questions answered!

I love Marianne. Drew and I have had some amazing double-dates with she and her hubby Christen. We have such a blast with them!! We love to play board games with the Haalands. Normally Christen dominates at Monopoly, but I try really hard not to hold that against them!

Marianne is an aspiring actress. Well, not really aspiring, she is an actress. She has been in tons of Florida productions, even a show that toured and played at the Hard Rock called Girl's Night! It was always such a blast going to see her shows! She is truly talented and I can't wait to say "I knew her when...." someday when she is rich and famous! (Remember me when you are rich and famous and take me on luxurious vacations with you, okay?).

I love hanging out with Marianne. Often we would get together and go see a movie or go shopping. We love having our girl talk and she was so helpful to me with all my "pre-wedding" questions since she was married. I miss this girl so very much!

Marianne also has a huge heart and a broad worldview. She has lived in many different countries including, Madagascar, Norway, England, and America and it has made her very culturally aware. She loves the Lord and is committed to glorifying Him through all of her actions. I think it is so beneficial for Christians to have cultural knowledge. So many Americans are not educated in the way that Marianne is. I try to learn what I can from her about other countries and their perspectives. It is important that we acknowledge others. It is so easy for us Americans to only think of our own country. That is one of the biggest lessons Marianne has taught me.

Marianne,

I MISS YOU SO MUCH!!! We need to have a phone date very soon! I wish I could have seen Project Christmas! I always loved watching you in that. I miss seeing you frequently and wish so badly we lived just down the street from each other! Or even in the same town! Thank you for everything you have taught me! Thank you for all of the prayers you have prayed for me. Thank you for being my friend. I appreciate your friendship so much! I love you and I miss you terribly!

MB