Cross-country skiing and me

One proverb says that Norwegians are born with skis. Since I was not born in Norway, I had to learn cross-country skiing.

After wanting to take it easy this weekend - you also need to rest from traveling - I received a message early in the morning: Do you want to learn cross-country skiing?

Since it was forecasted to rain again in the evening and we have above zero temperatures, I immediately agreed and just an hour later I was at BUA borrowing the equipment.

I met Ole Bjarne in front of our house and we walked to an open field where he made a trail for me and explained the technique. In retrospect, we found out that I had borrowed skis that were way too long, but it still worked. I even managed to go down the hill without any problems (which would have been a miracle since I already knew that part). After about an hour and a half of practice, I was able to move fluidly on the skis without falling too often.

So, I have learned another part of Norwegian cultural heritage and a great way to get around in the snow! I was also initiated into the secret of Blå Swix. That's the wax used for cross-country skis. Any other brand is frowned upon. Ole Bjarne had a whole set of wax, one for freezing weather, one for cold weather, and one for mild weather (1°C, like today). He also taught me the art of waxing and when to use what, why not. You can really make a science out of it!

Thank you for being my teacher, Ole Bjarne.