Alan T
I've been looking at timetables, and I think your SWMBO has a valid point.
OSL-LHR-JFK will be a flying time of 2:30+7:45=10:15, and with whatever transit time you want since there are so many options for the two flights
Whereas
OSL-DOH-JFK is 6:30+14:15=20:45 flying time pus an overnight 8:50 in transit, for a total elapsed time of 29:35. Perhaps not the best way to start an around the world journey? And you will be flying QR later on anyway.

Of course, there are some of us here on Flyer Talk (me included ) who would jump at the Qatar Airways option. Perhaps we're mad?