Deutschkurs Bern 2016

Over the last two weeks, we all took part in a transformative course based in Bern. Although we all have different backgrounds and cultures, we had one thing in common: the hope to expand our minds and our hearts and therefore learn a new language. The great Nelson Mandela once said,

'The greatest glory in living lies in never falling, but in rising every time we fall'

We, as group, have had our moments. But, as a result, we are more Swiss than ever before.

Best moments:

• Camilla speaking Italian
• Heidi getting on the train
• Gala texting her friends
• Angela and Cristian telling a joke
• Francesco 
• Daniel telling a joke
• Thomas* buying some hot chestnuts

Tomorrow, we embark on a brand new adventure. This aims to change our lives for ever. When we first heard about it we could not sleep at night. Sledding. It took a while for the news too sink in, however we now as a group feel ready.
 
We as a group believe that if there is a God, his everlasting love certainly has manifested within the last two weeks -- mostly in Daniel who is a real hero (he bought us burgers once).

As you can see, this bridge is made out of wood. Imagine: a boat collides with this bridge. Collectively, we have determined that there would no longer be a bridge.

Don't worry -- we're not actually dressed like this. However, Cristian's afro is no costume.

#ASOlife

*Thomas's name has not been confirmed by any official entity.

Last day of winter camp in Sedrun

On the first evening of 2016 we were given the opportunity to freely decide what we wanted to do, which consisted of relaxation, packing or ping pong.Unfortunately the next day was our last day on the slopes. After the warm up, to our suprise, they let us choose our groups, so we set off in groups of three or more to enjoy our last day om the slopes. And finally the snow we were all hoping for came during the last two hours of our time on the slopes. We soon realised that the sunny weather was lucky for us as the snow blocked our view. We got home early to allow time to pack our belongings and clean the rooms before the amazing fondue. Tonights evening program will consist of a fun quiz and karaoke, which will be followed up by a party.
Since we will have to leave tomorrow morning, we will have a early wake up call, around 6:00, to catch the train at 9:16.
Bye bye Sedrun!

This morning. The afternoon was only one shade of grey.

Fifth and sixth day of winter camp in Sedrun

Ice skating

Yesterday the weather was fine, but cloudy. The conditions on the mountain however, were better than other days. We skied until the early afternoon. Once we arrived home, we had some free time to ourselves and later we prepared ourselves for the evening New Years party. Before the party the campers presented the various forms of entertainment that they had been preparing for the past few days. These included a musical performance, an improv performance, and camp games. In addition to these activities the first part of the camp movie was presented. After that concluded, the camp celebrated the new year with a party and masks. We lit fireworks and counted down to the new year. The older campers went to the pub after midnight to continue the new year celebration.
Today we slept later than usual due to the fact that we were up late the night before, there was a light snowfall, but only enough to get our hopes up and shatter them again. At ten o'clock we ate brunch and unlike the other days we did not make our way to the ski resort but instead took a train to disentis to go ice skating. After ice skating some played soccer on a nearby field while others attemted obscure yoga positions or socialised. We had a woderful risotto for lunch near the ice skating rink and were then given the option to either walk or take the train back to sedrun. Naturally most decided to take the train, however, three girls and five leaders enjoyed the wonderful views and cold mountain breeze on the two hour hike back. Once everyone arrived back at the house some went to the gym to continue their soccer game. The ones who stayed home enjoyed table tennis and card games. For dinner we had hamburgers, the americans were very excited about this. We are all looking forward to the last day on the slopes tomorrow.

Party games!

Masks, many many Masks...