On the first Monday trip it was the Norwegians turn and they decided to show as a typical Norwegian-Family-Sunday. We met at 9:15 o’clock in front of Spicheren with a daypack in which was food, a hot drink and a warm jacket. We also had to bring our cross country skies. Until now it was a secret what comes up for the day. In a short briefing it was announced that we go to Jegers. After a 10 minute walk the whole group arrives at a big clearing right next to the ski track. Everyone put down their skies and daypacks due to the warm-up games. In a big rectangle we played chasey. A few rounds later we took on our skies. My first impression was something like: “Oh my goodness, I will fall every 5 seconds” but actually I did pretty well. Retrospective, this was a very smart idea of the Norwegians. We did not pay attention to standing on the skies keeping balance. Instead we tried to run away from the catchers and improved our cross country ski skills subconscious.

Next, all students were divided up into two big groups. One group did either ski jumping or slalom and the other group was splitted up again into four small groups. These small groups were perfect for interacting and getting on contact with the Norwegian students and the biathlon we had to solve was a lot of fun! The two big groups changed places after a while, so everyone was able to do everything. As a logical consequence of this exhausting games everyone was hungry. A fire was made with the pieces of wood we brought with us. A self-made fire is an awesome feeling. Moreover, we were able to warm our feet and toes. For about an hour everyone was sitting around the tree campfire sites having lunch and talking. This break was also perfect for testing my equipment. I brought several layers with me, e.g. a vest, fleece jacket and synthetic jacket. First, I tried one additional layer (fleece jacket) but I started freezing very quickly. Therefore, I put on my synthetic jacket over my fleece jacket – that was perfect. I did not freeze anymore and I was able to enjoy the break.

After lunch, we started the 4 km ski track around Jegers. I fell not that often as expected and had a nice discussion with one of the Norwegians. Moreover, it was a great feeling to notice that I am getting used to the cross country skis. An indicator therefore is that I did not fell at long slope I fell about 6 times some days before.

All in all, it was a wonderful day because the sun was shining, I was able to improve my skiing skills and came in contact with a lot of people.