Paddling in both moonlight and midnight sun
Chipo Tendeland, born and raised in Strengelvåg in Øksnes municipality, has lived in various places in Northern Norway throughout her life, including a few years in Trondheim. She currently resides in Stokmarknes in the Vesterålen region, where she works as a pharmacist at Sykehusapotek Nord (Hospital Pharmacy North).
-Most places have clubs and people who share the same hobbies as you. The difference is just how incredibly beautiful it is here in Northern Norway, how close everything is, and the absence of rush hour traffic. As a result, it feels like there is much more free time, even when working full-time, Chipo explains.
She also finds the variation of the four seasons exciting and enjoys the magical darkness period when they often go on fishing trips with their fishing boat and engage in atmospheric paddling under the moonlight.
-We can go kayaking all year round. It’s not too cold, and there’s no ice on the water. We simply put on our paddling gear inside and walk straight down to the shore in front of our house. During the summer, their children also join them in the kayaks, and with the sun shining around the clock, they have plenty of time to enjoy the surrounding nature.
-We truly appreciate having the sea so close by, and we often enjoy a cup of coffee by a beach bonfire or in our boathouse where we have a fire pit.
Family who cycles to work year-around
The Tendeland family often leaves their car behind and chooses to bike instead. Every day, regardless of the weather, they bike approximately 1.5 km to and from work and school. During winter, Julia (6) rides in a bike trailer, while Trym (8) bikes on his own.
-They are used to it and never complain, not even when it’s blowing strongly and they have to wear ski goggles, Chipo laughs.
The weather rarely stops the family from doing what they want. “But there are times when we prioritize indoor activities like climbing and swimming when it’s slippery or when the sleet is at its worst,” Chipo explains. Climbing has long been one of Chipo’s major hobbies, and every Thursday she serves as an instructor for children’s climbing at the fantastic climbing wall in Stokmarknes. Her son has also become hooked on the sport, so there will likely be more outdoor climbing in their future, she reveals.
“There are great climbing spots here on Hadseløya, and it’s just a short drive to Lofoten, where the conditions are even better for those who want to explore more,” she adds.
Often manages to fit in a mountain hike after work
Chipo also enjoys getting a good workout by hiking uphill. “Hiking in the mountains is just wonderful,” she shares, explaining how she often manages to sneak in a hiking trip right after work. “Especially in the fall and spring, when there is still some light in the afternoon, I have my father or grandparents pick up the children. Then I bike to the mountain Storheia (504 meters above sea level), and in just half an hour, I have gotten some fresh air and enjoyed a fantastic view.”
During winter, she also enjoys ski touring in the mountains with her randonee skis. Regardless of the season, hiking in the mountains is a regular activity for Chipo, and the children join in when conditions permit. They also enjoy skiing and participate in the “Onsdagsløpet” (Wednesday ski run) once a week. It’s a great opportunity for children to practice their skiing skills alongside other kids.
Found love through the paddling community
“It’s easy to make acquaintances here in the north. Just join clubs for the hobbies you’re interested in. There’s always a group of people and someone willing to join in activities,” says Chipo. She herself is a member of both the climbing club and the paddling club. Both clubs have Facebook groups where members share their training plans and invite others to join. “I’m introverted myself, but I always feel like I have someone to hang out with if I want to.”
Through the paddling club, there are often organized trips around Northern Norway. The most important event for Chipo is the Arctic Sea Kayak Race. It takes place in Øksnes-Vestbygd for a whole week every summer. In addition to the race, there are camping trips. It was at this event that she met her great love. Since then, they have always participated together and now also bring their children as part of their annual summer vacation.
The family of four leads a truly active and varied life together, but Chipo confirms that they also have their share of downtime at home. “We do spend some time indoors watching TV and using computers, but I prefer to be out doing something. When you live in such a fantastic place like this, you just have to enjoy it in the free time you have,” she concludes.
