Off to Oslo I go

Last year when I had to sell my Nordic Combined Olympic tickets I mentioned that maybe our veteran athletes could stick around until Sochi so I had a second chance. Billy Demong suggested that while that was possible maybe I should consider World Championships in Oslo. Since I have never been to Oslo I decided that sounded like a great idea. I thought about it on and off over the summer and finally decided to go for it. It helped a lot that Hanne so kindly offered to take me in while I was going to be in Oslo. I had only emailed asking for suggestions but she is my hero for providing lodging and support! The first day tickets went on sale found me working away at a friend's computer on the Notre Dame campus (while on vacation) so I could get myself covered for these events. That was an effort convincing my bank that I really was the one using my credit card for event tickets in Norway. But eventually I ended up with events every day from February 25th (Women's Ski jumping) until March 2nd. In November I finally bought my flight and thought I was ready to go. And then I tore my ACL. My only question for the doctor was whether I could still go if I had surgery. He gave me the okay, so the surgery happened and the travel plans continued!

Finally it was time to head for Oslo. I have to admit this was not my best organized trip. I spent the past two weeks moving and found myself rushing to pack. I left behind my American flags and any thought of bringing along stickers or pins. Oops. My flight left Salt Lake City Wednesday morning and took me to Minneapolis to Amsterdam to Oslo. Things were going really well for air travel until I got to Amsterdam. We actually arrived early but then were delayed getting out due to weather. In Minneapolis I was able to switch my seats to the aisle so that I could have my leg hanging out. And luck was with me and I ended up with both seats to myself. The other two flights I just switched sides with someone. It is nice to know there are still helpful people out there. The other issue I ran into in Amsterdam involves my Visa cards. Turns out that not one single one of the prepaid cards works over here so far. Good thing I deposited my federal return before I left. Might have to use it here on my bank card and then use the prepaid cards to pay bills at home. Oh the joys of figuring out money while traveling. I love Visa, they help our athletes and I have always had good luck with my credit/debit card, but I wish the prepaid ones came with more information on whether they would work in Europe. Live and learn.



This afternoon I arrived in Oslo and was greeted by Hanne at the airport. I was so happy to see her! And happy to be done with flights for a few days. She took me back to her wonderful place where I was able to relax from the travel and we watched the Cross Country sprints on tv. She translated what was going on every once in awhile. They even interviewed Kikkan Randall, which needed no translation. I'm just sorry it wasn't a good day for her. This evening after a delicious dinner we traveled downtown by bus. Hanne showed me where to pick it up, which one to take, where to get off, etc so that I'm all set for tomorrow's event.

Once we were downtown we took the train (metro) over to the center area where they have a stage set up for ceremonies. Since we were early we wandered around the tents checking out the local dishes and souvenirs. Hanne explained any that I might not have understood. I already have a few fun ideas for souvenirs, although mostly for my brother. We'll see what I decide upon later. We wandered by some snow sculptures and checked out the events until it was time for the awards. Everyone was pretty happy since a Norwegian woman won and a Norwegian man was 2nd today. There were also a couple of Swedish athletes on the podium and they seem to have a decent crowd here too. We weren't not able to see much other than the flags and bits of the video screen. So now I know when the USA athletes are on the podium I need to get there early so I can see.

Snow sculptures

Hanne showed me another option for taking the bus back to her place. When we arrived I met her fiance Bjornar who is also wonderful for taking me in! I am so excited to experience Norway with the help of Hanne and Bjornar. It should be a wonderful week of adventures. Tomorrow will start the excitement with Women's Ski Jumping. I will be there with my bell cheering on Abby, Alissa, Jessica, Lindsey and Sarah! GO USA!