Now? I "gasp" like a pro. In a conversation and don't know the word or how to respond, just suck in your breathe and nod agreeably. That'd probably get you by, as the person decides that you are such an understanding person or whether to call you out on your bluff. :)
In "gasping" - why the inverted commas, is because, I really don't know how to describe that sound. It sounds like one purposefully opens the mouth and suddenly sucks in air for no reason - that to me, seems like the definition of gasp. The "gasp" is normally used by females, this sound normally signifies the listener is in full empathy, whether in agreement or in shock. Just observe and you'll pick up the nuances of the "gasp".
I noticed this when I started working. When I was growing up, it was well-drilled/ingrained-deep in my skull, must handover objects properly to people - just look at the Asian/Chinese movies, wanna insult someone? Start by throwing or dropping the things (normally it would be wads of cash) at the person or near the person, on purpose. Now, that's the keypoint - this action wasn't done on purpose, it was.. well.. just done. I don't understand why, especially sometimes I am just standing right in front of them, that whatever object can't be just handed to me. Well, over time, I've come to understand it is just one of the quirks :P
So, Summers are for holidays, a flurry of activities from BBQs, plucking wild-berries in the forests (leads to making loads of jam), hiking/camping and specifically for Flekkefjord, the Flekkefjordbanen - cycling on an old railway through tunnels, this is a story for another day :). And, the best prawns! The only way I know how to describe the prawns is they are like the Ikea prawns, full of eggs and so fresh.
First thing that comes to mind for Autumn is falling leaves and rain. :p but, Autumns are for crabbing, plucking wild mushrooms in the woods, hunting for big/small games, and come November, lots of activities to prep for Christmas, lots of knitting and DIY for gifts will be starting around this time.
Full-on Winter in December - lots of Christmas-driven activities, (personal favorite - chopping down your own Christmas tree), and of course the skiing, ice-skating, you get the idea. I've learnt to appreciate candles in a whole new light - I love how a tiny flame seems to bring forth a warmth amidst the darkness and coldness. And I've learnt to have fireplace-envy :P
Spring - My favorite season :) Of course, gardening is a huge thing, after the snow/ice melts away and the green spreads all round. The day starts to get really long, I love it. Parties, Easter and National Day (17.5) are priorities during this period. And on the 17th May, it is especially prominent and touching to see rows and rows of Norwegians, dressed in their finest & waving the flags, to celebrate and show how proud they are to be who they are. Children are always the focus for the national day parades. It is quite a different scenario back at home... so this is thoroughly refreshing.
Till the next post,
ABE