Wednesday, 3 October 2012

Farvel Danmark

I don't think I could say it any better than Jassie did, but my extremely heartfelt thanks also need to be expressed for what has been the most amazing experience here in Denmark.

Although there is some sadness to be leaving this wonderful country, I leave with many new friends, unforgettable memories, personal and professional inspiration, and probably a few extra kilos!

I echo Jas' thanks to Finn and his team of helpers in every town we went to, to our brilliant host families and other Rotarians who opened their homes and lives to us on our journey, and to our vocational mentors who took time out of their working days to show us how our work is done here in Denmark.

And to my amazing team leader and teammates, while we are parting ways tomorrow for a short time, I can't wait for the new adventures that await. Thank you for making me laugh until I felt ill, being incredibly supportive throughout our time here, for teaching me so much and just generally for being the best group I could have hoped for to share this experience with!

Jeg elsker Danmark!

Tuesday, 2 October 2012

Happiness is only real when shared

Tonight we had our farvell party in Aalborg. It was our chance to reflect on amazing times and thank all the people it has taken to make our GSE experience one we will never forget!

I know we said a quick thanks tonight...but I just want write my last blog from Denmark to express my gratitude.

The poignant moral of the story from one of my favourite movies "into the wild" is happiness is only real when shared. And i think there has never been a truer word said. This GSE experience would be nothing with out the people I have shared this with.

First and foremost our marvellously generous and kind host families and vocational mentors who have welcomed us with open arms, shown and shared their lovely homes, workplaces, meals, towns and best hygge and hospitality. The generosity, pride and passion they have shared it with have not gone unnoticed either...thank you for taking us in to your home, sharing your city and making our experience so personal and memorable.

Of course to Finn and his incredibly dedicated team of GSE coordinators who put in all the hard work coordinating and organising our hosts, vocations days and cultural experiences behind the scenes. You have done yourselves, Rotary and Denmark proud. You have shown and given us the very best. Thank you!!

And last but certainly not least my most fantastic, amazing, incredible BFFs...my GSE teamies! You guys re just the best! You are such an amazing bunch of people, who I feel so lucky to call my friends. The biggest heartfelt thank you for all the laughs, chats, special times shared and friendship. This trip would not have been as rewarding, fulfilling or enjoyable if I didn't share it with you.

Tomorrow is our last full day of our experience. I leave Denmark full of wonderful memories, inspiring lessons and so much richer from all the new friends I have made. Tak for den fantastiske oplevelse! Denmark will always have a special place in my heart!

Monday, 1 October 2012

Secret Santa, with a twist

I'm backtracking here to Frederikshavn (stop 6) and not just to brag about how good our host mum Tina's roast pork was (although it was out-of-this-world amazing).

I wanted to quickly write about an important topic we were discussing over said roast pork (and many bottles of red wine) - Christmas!

Morten and Tina told us about a lovely tradition they have around Christmas with their staff at their company, Seafood Sales. At the start of the month of December, each staff member draws a name out of a hat. Then, every day leading up to Christmas, it is their job to do something nice for that person, be it making them a cup of coffee, collecting their printing from the printer, buying them lunch. It doesn't matter how big or small, as long as it is something that will make their lives a little easier for the festive season.

I loved it, and think it should be compulsory to implement it in every workplace! It's yet another example of a small gesture making a big difference to the happiness, motivation and drive to perform at work.