Week one

Arriving in Denmark I was greeted by two of my families, with many hugs and smiles.

We came straight home and had a nice family (Danish) lunch... meat, meat, meat and more meat... with some bread and sauces. I think being a vegetarian is punishable by law here in Denmark.

My home is right on the water, I could not have been hosted by a richer club I think! (touch wood). The view is beautiful, at night I can see all the lights of Frederikshavn. The whole back side of the house is made of glass, and has a never ending view of the ocean.

On Sunday Bente and Søren took me up the (only) hill to see a view of the city, from there I could see 3 of my amazing houses and all of both Bangsbostrand (my suburb and host club) and the city in the distance. IT WAS FREEZING up on the hill with all the wind!

Tuesday night I went and saw the White Hawks ice hockey with Neils-Erik (my third host dad). It was, to say, epic. And to my amusement, one of the players was my bank teller. Am I the only one that thinks that is crazy?! Also, on a billboard on the wall, there was a guy that looked EXACTLY like Starky. Both of which entertained me for most of the night.

I am learning Danish bit by bit. School is basically the perfect time for me to catch up with everyone back home in Australia as since I can't understand the Danish in all the classes, I favour my laptop with facebook and msn. I am in no way complaining. However being the nerd that I am I can't wait to understand Danish and learn something... The subjects I am in seem quite interesting - english, geography, french, music, government, religion, danish, psychology, history and gym (gym is not considered a pro however)

Tonight I went to my first Rotary meeting. It was really lovely, everyone was so nice! Again, I am excited to be able to understand Danish so I can become a lot more involved in the meetings.

All week I have been stressing about getting my box which we sent from home which finally arrives tomorrow. I don't think I can express how I feel about getting more of my shoes. And also having more than four outfits. Oh god, the pleasure of opening that box (no pun intended).

I am yet to curl in a ball and cry from home sickness. Let us pray that I stay strong! The rings and pendants that my family bought me do actually bring me warmth when I look at them, it is very reassuring for me to feel close to them still.

I urge everyone to get skype! Rotary gave us students the impression that if we talk to family we would get more homesick. Admittedly last night I was feeling a bit down... I then had an hour long conversation with mum via skype which then made me feel SO much more relieved. It is, like I said, reassuring.

My current family however is amazing. I feel very much at home and couldn't have asked for more or a better family!

There is so much I am forgetting to post I know!

Peow peow

Riley

Busy, busy week!

(also made for my website; 20th January)

This week has been so very busy, with packing, saying my last goodbyes to friends, last preparations and other such business.

I suppose I should start firstly with the Redland Shire City Australia Day Awards.

A few weeks ago I received a letter from said Shire telling me of my nomination for Young Citizen of the Year (a nomination thanks to Councillor Debra Henry). I was very surprised (and pleased) by this and did by no means expect to win (considering the apparent esteem of this award). Come Monday the 18th however, and yours truly is awarded Young Citizen of the Year by Mayor Hodson. I feel very privileged, and I would never have been able to achieve this without my Presidency position at Cleveland High School. I maintain that it is and will continue to be one of the best schools in all of South East Queensland. I take this opportunity to say to anyone (those few who actually may read this) to always continue doing your best. The satisfaction may or may not be instant, but guaranteed; if you are doing something for the wellbeing of another, prosperity (in any form) will ensue. There is nothing greater than the act of giving.

I think believe there is nothing more important than having a healthy community. If your neighbours are not happy, then neither will you be. I live for my family, friends and the world that we live in. All these things give so much to us individually, it is so important to give back.

Moving on however...

Just 24 hours to go. Emotions include nerves, nerves, anxiety, anxiety, nerves and a little excitement. Two weeks ago I was close to bursting with excitement about the upcoming trip to Denmark. Now however all I can think about is my suitcase; what I need, what I don’t have, what I can and cannot get in Denmark... What I can afford in Denmark! The emails and messages I have received from host families and friends in Denmark have been so wonderfully welcoming. I am so excited to meet everyone, I fear it may be a little overwhelming! But that’s just the anxiety of the trip.

Today, I spent my last moments for a year with three of my best friends. In true Aussie spirit, we built forts in our backyard and had a water fight. Although it was a fantastic day, it was extremely sad to say goodbye. I will miss everyone in Australia so much! And as much as I can’t wait for this year abroad, I also can’t wait for my return to spend time with these people so close to me.

Over and out

Ginny Weasely

Preparing for the Trip

(this was meant for my website and is therefore out of date. made on January 11th)

Australia currently has a temperature of 30 degrees, Fredrikshavn however is “enjoying”
a cool average of -5 degrees. Firstly, I would appreciate reminders that we Australians are ‘tough’ and can handle anything... right? RIGHT?!

The issue at hand currently being faced is that of clothes. Here in Australia we stock acrylic, cotton, acrylic, acrylic............ I need wool! I need warmth! As much as we have tried to prepare here in Australia, I believe I will be needing to spend a great deal of money upon arriving in Denmark to gain as much warm clothing as possible.

It is proving difficult however to keep to the 20kg limit of luggage for my flight. Sending a box over by air freight has now found to be necessary, which adds yet ANOTHER expense ($300!). Be warned now; the coming year involves many complaints of a lack of money.

Not long now... I am so very excited!

Website fail

I tried making a website.. and failed.

Here is my fall back.

Above this I will update my life happenings in Denmark!