rose's random rambly writings

Yesterday I saw one of the first signs that winter season is upon us here in the north.
Yes, I have seen snow earlier this year, but yesterday I saw a man dressed in his ski suit.
A bit odd perhaps, considering there isn't any snow in the city but then - prepared tracks are only a subway ride away.
Norwegians claim to be born with skis on their feet, so people with skis are a quite common sight during the winter months. Needless to say, people around here are quite fond of winter and winter sports. And they are proud of their accomplishments in the latter.

The sight of ski-man got me thinking about a debate that went on here a while ago.
Due to not meeting the standards for arranging the 2011 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, it was decided that Holmenkollen ski jump in Oslo should be demolished and replaced with a new up-to-date construction.
Because of its history and tradition - the tower has been around since 1939 - many people thought it was horrendous to demolish it while others happily embraced a new and improved ski jump.
Well, history and tradition had to bend this time, and demolishment started last month.

One of the reasons those opposed to a new ski jump used, were that Holmenkollen ski jump is one of Oslo's (maybe even Norway's) main attractions.
Now, I have to admit that coming from a neighbouring country, albeit from further south where we don't walk around with skis (or even ski suits!) in the winter time, I can't remember having heard about Holmenkollen before I moved here.
Therefore, I'm curious to hear from you guys. Have you heard of Holmenkollen?
And what do you think of when I say Oslo or Norway?