The day before departure.

At the beginning there is always a preface, at least for me.

Right from the start I should say that I don't care if there are spelling mistakes. From the day I start writing in the cold, my fingers will be so cold that I can just about pick my nose.

I will try to write something here every day or night, especially since it will be dark for 24 hours.

Acknowledgements (at least mentioning people):

Firstly, my mother, even though she is scared and won't be able to sleep as long as I'm away. Thank you.

So, now comes something random.

Thanks to Deejayy (the name stays the same) who was enthusiastic about the idea of posting it on Instagram.

Majana, who said it sounds great but you need an Instagram profile and not everyone has one. Luckily she already wrote it down here and I remembered it.

Nicki, I don't know why Peggy said I have to write your name, otherwise it would be mean.

Okay, that should be enough. I'll write a few more names. Doro, Wolfgang, Henry... just a few.

It's time, the backpack is packed.

Right now I'm still cozy in bed, but tomorrow I'll already be in the darkest country, no not Sachsen. Norway.

The train to Berlin leaves tomorrow at 5:40.

For those who are wondering what I'm bringing, I can write it down for you.

Oh, I'll write it down now.

1 pair of pants, 2 sweaters, 3 pairs of socks, 5 (haa haa, you thought I had 4) underwear, 7 tealights, titanium stove, cup, fork, 3 power banks, charging cable, 2 towels, toiletries, an ultra warm down jacket (and also windproof), gloves, gaiters, poles, snowshoes, snow shovel (yes, that has to come with me), knife, buff (something for the neck), 3 headlamps, 1 rain jacket, 1 wool jacket, 3 wool undershirts, a jacket for such situations (it's a klättermusen, had to bring it) and of course tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, and an orange seat cushion to bring some color in the darkness.

Also, almost everything is made of wool, so I can wear it for a long time without smelling like a skunk.

All the items were purchased over the years at TravelCamp Wernigerode (that counts as advertising) 😂.