Goodbye Norway!

No one could have guessed how the past 3 months in Norway would turn out for me. So many opportunities, disappointments, chances, and coincidences that couldn't have been mere coincidences!

According to Björn, Eric and I were selected for the coaching job out of over 500 applicants, giving us the rare opportunity to fulfill our dream of mushing in Norwegian Lappland. However, it was unforeseeable that this dream would lead me to a place that offered amazing animals and breathtaking landscapes, but where I felt so uncomfortable as a person, like rarely before in my life... There was just no connection for me with 2 out of 4 people, even though I'm generally an easygoing person... that was hard to anticipate. But then, by chance, finding this job offer on this farm + the opportunity to turn the change of location into a spontaneous road trip with my best friend across Norway... unpredictable, and all the more priceless. And finally, to be lucky enough to find not only a comfortable place to stay, but also friends in this slightly crazy and incredibly lovable family, and thus to get to know not only the country, but also its people better...

Well, I should probably play the lottery.

By the way, the party on Saturday was a complete success. About 25 guests came and we celebrated, laughed - and drank - wholeheartedly. And yes, at first Norwegians may seem a bit cold and distant... but once the ice is broken, they are a warm-hearted bunch. A shared drinking binge is still the best form of integration ;) And after I drunkenly allowed myself to be convinced to arm wrestle and beat Einy's cousin from Bergen, who weighs about 110 kg, I even managed to put a smile on the face of the last Viking. I know, that doesn't necessarily speak for my femininity... but here, different attributes count ;) In my last week, I took the opportunity to hike up the local mountain with the two furry companions and enjoy a magnificent view. Ola also taught me revolver shooting and I went horse sledding with Einy. The formerly pink junk room is now painted in a chic blue color and I was able to indulge in some artistic activity - freehand, of course, in the Viking style ;) With a clear conscience and the suitcases packed, I am ready and if all goes well, I will be back in Germany tomorrow evening. What remains are incredibly many, incredibly amazing impressions... every experience during this time was enriching. And there were numerous challenges that allowed me to grow!

But in the end - I also like to fly back home and - I have rarely looked forward to Christmas so much! :)

Thank you for being with me, I wish you a Merry Christmas and say goodbye... Goodbye! Yours, Pauli