Again, it`s only been just over a week, but so much has happened. You lose track of time here in Kandersteg, something that isn`t necessarily a bad thing.
22 May: Kandersteg is so cool. Today I was in Programme and helped with the opening of the Upper Hut. While some of the work was very similar to house (taking all the bedding, mattress covers and curtins down to be washed, etc) it was the location that made it so amazing. Leaving KISC at 9:30 we drove up for 30min on hairpins, climbing in altitdue. Driving as far as we could, in the end we came across deep snow (avalance area) and had to walk from there, taking all our gear with us. Besides the `house`work, we also had to connect the water and electricty for the hut. Electricity consists of a big solar panel and battery, whereas the water is sticking a pipe in the local stream. While at homne the latter would be unthinkable, here the water is so clean and fresh, it would be odd to do anything different. Once the water was set up, we had Victory Tea (normal tea, but using our very own Victory water). We were very proud because instead of taking a week or more, it only took us 2 hours to get it set up. With Victory tea, we had our lunch and were back to work at 1:30. After lunch it was electricy and getting all the laundry down. Finishing at 3pm, we started to pack up and take everything back down to the chalet. Carrying all the bags of laundry was seeming very tedious, so after a while Stefan and Katherine were seen ROLLING the bags down the mountin. It was very entertaining as the bag started slowly and gathered more and more speed until POP! The bag burst open flinging dirty laundry all over the mountain. After a good laugh, we gathered it all up again, and carried it back to the car. Returning to KISC shortly after 4, we took a nice long break. During this break, Gillian came up to me and asked me to work at Mark Lombard`s party at the Sunneblick. While I had plans to go to the movies, it would be nice to get paid for a change. Working from 4:30 until 12am, I am expecting 75 dollars, but we`ll see when I get paid.
23 May: Today I was making, cutting and laminating signs for Kanderlodge. While the work itself wasn`t overly thrilling, it`s the new-ness (!?) and the change that made it nice. During the day I also put Upper Hut laundry in and out in hopes that it will be ready for tomorrow. When I went back into Programme after dinner to see if Andrew wanted my help, Katherine told him about the laundry and Andrew said `I`m not surprised, she`s pretty good, eh?` Katherine admitted sher was a gan. It`s so nice to have compliments like that. Not only do I feel better about my work, but I really feel this is where I belong. I love KISC.
25 May: Yesterday I, again, worked for Andrew and Gillian decorating Kanderlodge and various other office work. Unfortunately most of the pictures haven`t arrived for Kanderlodge yet, so I couldn`t do the majority of the work set out for me. In the evening we had Staff Night Out- Party at the Upper Hut!!! Opting for the car ride up, Chris asked me to take Willow (his puppy), so he could bike up. No problem with me, but Jens was a little paranoid, constantly looking back to tmkae sure she hadn`t been sick etc. At one point he said `If that dog pees, Creighton`s out too.` Awesome. Getting to the Upper Hut there was a distinct cap on the amoun of alcohol we were allowed to drink. 3 beers, no ifs ands or buts. Beacuse we were at such a high altitude, the alcohol can affter you differently, hance the limite. Not feeling too great, I didn`t want beer and as soon as I was Jean making tea, I was right there! Asking if I could have some, he said it was fine as long as I drank it out of a bowl. When I asked why, he said it was because that`s what you do in mountain huts! He then went on to tell me how you bring minimal dishes, and by holding a bowl, your hands stay warm. Hell, I got tea, and my hands were warm, I`m not complaining. Going to bed pretty early, we also got up early to get back to the centre befor 8am. Again, taking Willow in the car, we were back to the centre before 7. I put laundry in, clean my room and more, all before breakfast. Starting work at 8am, I had so much energy because I was so awake it was awesome. I loved it, but my 4pm, I was a little tired....but still awesome.
28 May: The past couple of days have been pretty cool. One night this week, I worked really late (10pm), to get work done for Andrew and Gillian. Thankfully, after dinner, Chris and his mom helped me with framing all the pictures. Working so late, I was practically kicked out of the office by Mark (director, NL), how many shorties can say that? Last night Lynsey and I got permission to leave work early so we could head to Zurich. Booking a Marriott on my mom`s points, Lynsey and I were joined by Andrew in a 5 start hotel in the middle of Zurich, with executive priviledges and everything! The bed was so nice that, even with three of us in it, it was still the best sleep I`ve had in a while. Going out last night, few places were open because it was a wednesday, and those that were open, closed at midnight. It was also very expenseive for drinks (but it was Zurich). The funniest part of the night was when Lynsey got hit on by an old, fat, blad guy who kept saying `You`ll fall in love with me` and Lynsey kept saying `Oh, I`m pretty sure I won`t`. This morning, we slept past breakfast, getting up after 10am. Lynsey talked about all the room she had in the bed, while Andrew and I didn`T have too much room ourselves. Regardless, it was an awesome nights sleep. During the day we went shopping, but didn`t buy anything (I know, successful). Still, we had fun trying on crazy clothes, and playing a Steinway Baby Grande (before getting told we weren`t allowed to touch it). Lynsey and I then caught the train and were back in Kandersteg for shortly after 6. Being SNO, I really wanted to go swimming, but Lynsey talked me out of it, and instead we had piyya at Dessies. We then joined in at SNO later, for ice cream.
31 May: Talk about whirlwind! This weekend has just been crazy busy with the K-Lodge opening. It`s all too much to write, but I`ll give the overview as best I can. Friday, I was in House in the morning and office in the afternoon. Not only did we have to prepare for check-ins, but we had to lcean the lodge as well. Saturday I was mostly in house, followed by a stint in shop and on to the grand opening. At the opening (after a million speaches), Mark Knippy was invited to unveil Kander-Lodge and with him `staff from all corners of the world.`This included Malcolm (Scotland), David (Russia), Jean (South Africa) Ah Ruem (Korea), and Myself. Together we pulled the roap which dropped the KISC flag, revealing the Lander-Lodge sign. I must admit, it was pretty awesome to be part of that. Our names are also going on a plaque to be put insdie K-lodge for those who helped build it. Unfortunately, it says `Creighton Weeks`right now (Pip`s last name) but there are numerous other mistakes that they`ll fix. After the formal opening we headed over to the Sports Field, where I stood in the rain for 2 hours, transporting meat between the grill and seaving tables. After the BBQ wrapped up, I helped in the kitech for an hour cleaning up, before finally heading to the party. With everyone just sitting around talking for the first bit, eventually the band came on and really bad- but really fun- dancing started. We were all ridiculous, but that`s just how we Pinkies do. (TBC.....)
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 23, 2009
23 May 2009
It hasn`t really been that long since I`ve blogged, but a whole lot has happened. Let`s start at the top...
13 May: Today was very cool. Working in Kanderlodge (Assembling IKEA Flatpacks), I was called out by Geoff at 2:30, `Do you want to go do the highroaps course?` DO I EVER! `One snag, people will be taking pictures for an ad campaign.` Oh well, I`ll live. Heading out with him and Jean (South Africa, High Adventure Assistant), we played.....ahem, I mean worked for the whole afternoon zip lining again and again so they could get a good picture. Hard work. It was awesome- and classified as work, how cool is that?
15 May: Wow. I have exactly one month left. How scary is that?! While I miss my family, I really don`t want to leave here. I`ve made so man good friends, and I always have such a good time. I don`t want to re-enter society. Not yet at least. Today the stairs up to the staff room were being waxed, so we weren`t allowed to walk on it. In order to get in and out of the staff room we instead had to use the fire escape ladders out side, and climb through windows. Thankfully the stairwell will open up tomorrow, because it is very difficult to carry hot chocolate up a ladder!
18 May: Duty+Peg Game = Paranioa = FUN
Today I was on duty, and for it I introduced the peg game. The peg game is where you have to secretly peg some one with a particular clothes peg, if you get pegged you have to pass it on until dinner, where the person has a punishment for having the peg. The only problem was, come dinner time, I still didn`t have a punishment. I was just thinking there was`n`t one, and the threat was motivation to play, but Dave didn`t like this idea. Then, as we`re serving dinner, he comes up with a brilliant plan. When Felipe came in for dinner, he told me to ring the bell. I said `In a minute` he said `No, NOW!` Wondering who had it, I looked over and saw it sticking out of Chris` back pocket. BBBBRRRRRING, went the bell. Calling it to Chris` attention, I said Ìf you could please stand on your chair and sing us a song, it would be loevly.` and I sat down, waiting. Singing Ba Ba Black Sheep, I could not stop smiling, such a good game- and Chris` idea. :) The rest of duty wasn`t nearly as exciting, but the peg game made up for it.
19 May: Today I met up with Marth! Getting up with plenty of time, I stopped at the bank on the way to the staion, to find that my card wouldn`t work. Borrowing money from Lynsey, I missed my train, and caught another one, 30min later. Thankfully Martha wasn`t waiting late, but I was worried about my card. Meeting up with Martha, I was so excited to see her. After hugs and laughs, we got on the tram and made it to our hostel. The only ones in our room we were very excited. We dropped our stuff and headed out. Bee-lining for the water, Geneva was HOT! even so, we enjoyed our time walking to the end of a pier, got ice cream and made it to the Jet D`Eau. The tallest fountain, it was very cool: literally and figuratively. After this we lazily headed to the Old Town, relaxing in a park and looking at all the buildings. For dinner, we were hell bent on saving money, and opted for a loaf of bread and a jar of peanut butter. Good laughs, and all for until 10 CHF. After this we headed back to the hostel to find more people in our room, so we headed to bed shortly after.
20 May: Getting up this morning, we had breakfast, checkout and were ready to go. Following out map like proper tourists, we easily found the United Nations. Going around to the tourists enterance, we first stopped at the Red Cross/Red Cresent museum. Definately worth the vist. It was then on to the UN: This visit was particularily cool to me because together Martha and I also visted the UN in New York. It was interesting to learn the difference of the two, but the best part was being in the original part of the building which housed the League of Nations. I was so in to it. Then we caught the tram, gathered our luggage and went to the train station. Arriving in Kandersteg just after 6, we walked back to the centre as I pointed everything out to her. I was so excited to have her here, and to see what I do, even if she could only stay for 12 hours. Finally arriving at the centre, I took her to our room giving her the full check in and tour. Heading to a small party that night, we didn`t stay long, and instead played cards, chatting in our room. I missed her, but I`m very glad she could come.
21 May: Today was absolutely, positively, incredibly, amazingly cool. Possibly my favourite day yet, and the really cool part: it didn`t cost a thing! This morning, Martha and I work up at 4am to get ready and get her to the train station for the first train out. Getting back before anyone was awake, I cleaned the German Room (where we slept) and read in the staff room (so I wouldn`t wak up Lynsey). Meeting Adnrew at 9am, we got our gear and headed out to climb the via ferrata. OMG!!!!! I was under the impression it was a difficult hike: NO! It is a challenging (but horribly fun) climb, including helmets and harnesses. I loved every second of it. In the climb you pass over a waterfall (the one you can see from my room)- twice. The climb consists of pegs less than 6 inches long. They stick out of the mountain and you have to climb up. There are also ladders which go vertical, horziontal and twist. It`s so amazing. I am sore and covered in cuts, scrapes, bruises, but it was so worth it. I want to do it again asap. Unfortunately there weren`t a lot of places to stop and take photos (I only took two), but when I do it again, I`ll be sure to take more. After the incredible climb, we hiked back down, and had lunch. Shortly after we joined Dave and Mike at the recently opened swimming pool for a quick dip. After this we went and watched movies at Staff Flat. While that big might sound boring to some, I found it to be fun. Sitting around with my friends: one Australian and the other English, drinking beer. Getting back to the centre for dinner, I had a shower, and was in bed for 9pm. Hey, I was up at 4, and have been going to whole time. I`m beat. But oh so happy too.
13 May: Today was very cool. Working in Kanderlodge (Assembling IKEA Flatpacks), I was called out by Geoff at 2:30, `Do you want to go do the highroaps course?` DO I EVER! `One snag, people will be taking pictures for an ad campaign.` Oh well, I`ll live. Heading out with him and Jean (South Africa, High Adventure Assistant), we played.....ahem, I mean worked for the whole afternoon zip lining again and again so they could get a good picture. Hard work. It was awesome- and classified as work, how cool is that?
15 May: Wow. I have exactly one month left. How scary is that?! While I miss my family, I really don`t want to leave here. I`ve made so man good friends, and I always have such a good time. I don`t want to re-enter society. Not yet at least. Today the stairs up to the staff room were being waxed, so we weren`t allowed to walk on it. In order to get in and out of the staff room we instead had to use the fire escape ladders out side, and climb through windows. Thankfully the stairwell will open up tomorrow, because it is very difficult to carry hot chocolate up a ladder!
18 May: Duty+Peg Game = Paranioa = FUN
Today I was on duty, and for it I introduced the peg game. The peg game is where you have to secretly peg some one with a particular clothes peg, if you get pegged you have to pass it on until dinner, where the person has a punishment for having the peg. The only problem was, come dinner time, I still didn`t have a punishment. I was just thinking there was`n`t one, and the threat was motivation to play, but Dave didn`t like this idea. Then, as we`re serving dinner, he comes up with a brilliant plan. When Felipe came in for dinner, he told me to ring the bell. I said `In a minute` he said `No, NOW!` Wondering who had it, I looked over and saw it sticking out of Chris` back pocket. BBBBRRRRRING, went the bell. Calling it to Chris` attention, I said Ìf you could please stand on your chair and sing us a song, it would be loevly.` and I sat down, waiting. Singing Ba Ba Black Sheep, I could not stop smiling, such a good game- and Chris` idea. :) The rest of duty wasn`t nearly as exciting, but the peg game made up for it.
19 May: Today I met up with Marth! Getting up with plenty of time, I stopped at the bank on the way to the staion, to find that my card wouldn`t work. Borrowing money from Lynsey, I missed my train, and caught another one, 30min later. Thankfully Martha wasn`t waiting late, but I was worried about my card. Meeting up with Martha, I was so excited to see her. After hugs and laughs, we got on the tram and made it to our hostel. The only ones in our room we were very excited. We dropped our stuff and headed out. Bee-lining for the water, Geneva was HOT! even so, we enjoyed our time walking to the end of a pier, got ice cream and made it to the Jet D`Eau. The tallest fountain, it was very cool: literally and figuratively. After this we lazily headed to the Old Town, relaxing in a park and looking at all the buildings. For dinner, we were hell bent on saving money, and opted for a loaf of bread and a jar of peanut butter. Good laughs, and all for until 10 CHF. After this we headed back to the hostel to find more people in our room, so we headed to bed shortly after.
20 May: Getting up this morning, we had breakfast, checkout and were ready to go. Following out map like proper tourists, we easily found the United Nations. Going around to the tourists enterance, we first stopped at the Red Cross/Red Cresent museum. Definately worth the vist. It was then on to the UN: This visit was particularily cool to me because together Martha and I also visted the UN in New York. It was interesting to learn the difference of the two, but the best part was being in the original part of the building which housed the League of Nations. I was so in to it. Then we caught the tram, gathered our luggage and went to the train station. Arriving in Kandersteg just after 6, we walked back to the centre as I pointed everything out to her. I was so excited to have her here, and to see what I do, even if she could only stay for 12 hours. Finally arriving at the centre, I took her to our room giving her the full check in and tour. Heading to a small party that night, we didn`t stay long, and instead played cards, chatting in our room. I missed her, but I`m very glad she could come.
21 May: Today was absolutely, positively, incredibly, amazingly cool. Possibly my favourite day yet, and the really cool part: it didn`t cost a thing! This morning, Martha and I work up at 4am to get ready and get her to the train station for the first train out. Getting back before anyone was awake, I cleaned the German Room (where we slept) and read in the staff room (so I wouldn`t wak up Lynsey). Meeting Adnrew at 9am, we got our gear and headed out to climb the via ferrata. OMG!!!!! I was under the impression it was a difficult hike: NO! It is a challenging (but horribly fun) climb, including helmets and harnesses. I loved every second of it. In the climb you pass over a waterfall (the one you can see from my room)- twice. The climb consists of pegs less than 6 inches long. They stick out of the mountain and you have to climb up. There are also ladders which go vertical, horziontal and twist. It`s so amazing. I am sore and covered in cuts, scrapes, bruises, but it was so worth it. I want to do it again asap. Unfortunately there weren`t a lot of places to stop and take photos (I only took two), but when I do it again, I`ll be sure to take more. After the incredible climb, we hiked back down, and had lunch. Shortly after we joined Dave and Mike at the recently opened swimming pool for a quick dip. After this we went and watched movies at Staff Flat. While that big might sound boring to some, I found it to be fun. Sitting around with my friends: one Australian and the other English, drinking beer. Getting back to the centre for dinner, I had a shower, and was in bed for 9pm. Hey, I was up at 4, and have been going to whole time. I`m beat. But oh so happy too.
Friday, May 15, 2009
15 May 2009
While it`s almost been a week since I last wrote, I think I`m doing pretty good considering no one TOLD me to write. So, go me! lol
6 May: Today I was in campsite with Alex, Rakel and Micheal and we had such a laugh. I love working with them, and hope I get to do it again soon. Highlights include trying to push a ski rack up a story in the storehouse....using a broom. Of course, that`s when Michael walks in (good timing) and just laughs. We also threw `girlfriends` down a story (tents....you had to be there), and a million other laughs. Tonight was SNO and we had chocolate fondue with the girls from Our Chalet (the girl guide centre) and a Pub Quiz (my table), and then played the Spanish games. Loads of fun.
7 May: Duty= boring. Most people went late night shopping, leaving me on my own this evening. Everything went smoothly, and nothing out of the ordinary.
8 May: My Easter Package has arrived!! Ever since Mom told me about the pagkage, I`ve been checking reception every day for it. Even Sundays, when they don`T deliver mail. Today, however, I didn`t check and at break, Felipe tells me I have a package, and I go TEARING through New Main Hall into recpetion. I didn`t even see my name, I just saw my dad`s handwriting and grabbed it. Sitting in coffee bar, I just sat there holding the packge, absorbing all the love they put in it. Once Lynsey arrived, I carefully opened it, saving the million stamps dad had to put on it. In it there were mini-sticks, shortbread, minieggs, my black smock, cards (from family and church choir) and the best part, a mother/daughter book that my mom filled with pictures of us from our European Adventure. Tears galore! I even had Lynsey crying. I read, and reread the book, laughing at every picture.
Working with Chris today, (very particular on 15min breaks) came over and said `Creighton! It`s been 20-oh...I`ll see you down there when you`re ready.` Leaving my snack, I went upstairs to puy my package away. When i came back down, my apple slices were gone. I asked Chris where they went and he wouldn`t tell me. Thinking he threw them out, I was a little annoyed and marched back to work. Only once I got downstairs did I see that he had set them on a stool beside where I was working. So cute.
9 May: At least I tried to hike today. I picked a route and planned things out for my day off, but once again, I over slept. Instead, Lynseywoke me up at 11am and said `Since you `re not hiking, do you want to come shopping in Thun this afternoon?` Why not, like dad says, it`s just a different type of hiking.
10 May: Happy Mothers Day! Today was the world cup finals for IIHF: Canada vs Russia. Inviting everyone down to Dessies for the game, we had 4 Canadians and one Russian, so it was very entertaining. Dressed up with hockey jerseys, hats, and some face paint, we sat right in front of the TV, so no one could stand in our way. With a final score of 2-1 Russia, it was a good game, sloppy towards the end, but clean, just I like. After the Russians won, Burky (bartender) went to David and said `You buying a round?` So David emptied his pocket (2.50) and just looked at him. Burey disappeared for a few seconds, comes back with vodka shots for everyone and says `I`ll take that 2.50 now.`We also stood for the Russian National Anthem, before I biked home.
12 May: Today Geoff, Lynsey and I went to the hospital to see the Cheif Surgeon regarding Lynsey`S finger. Taking 2 1/2 hours, it was determined she didn`t need surgery, but would start egro-therpy. Sweet! She`s feeling much better now, so I`m happy.
I have to now update my journal, and will get back to you on the past couple of day, but it was very cool, so sit in suspense. :)
Love,
Creighton
6 May: Today I was in campsite with Alex, Rakel and Micheal and we had such a laugh. I love working with them, and hope I get to do it again soon. Highlights include trying to push a ski rack up a story in the storehouse....using a broom. Of course, that`s when Michael walks in (good timing) and just laughs. We also threw `girlfriends` down a story (tents....you had to be there), and a million other laughs. Tonight was SNO and we had chocolate fondue with the girls from Our Chalet (the girl guide centre) and a Pub Quiz (my table), and then played the Spanish games. Loads of fun.
7 May: Duty= boring. Most people went late night shopping, leaving me on my own this evening. Everything went smoothly, and nothing out of the ordinary.
8 May: My Easter Package has arrived!! Ever since Mom told me about the pagkage, I`ve been checking reception every day for it. Even Sundays, when they don`T deliver mail. Today, however, I didn`t check and at break, Felipe tells me I have a package, and I go TEARING through New Main Hall into recpetion. I didn`t even see my name, I just saw my dad`s handwriting and grabbed it. Sitting in coffee bar, I just sat there holding the packge, absorbing all the love they put in it. Once Lynsey arrived, I carefully opened it, saving the million stamps dad had to put on it. In it there were mini-sticks, shortbread, minieggs, my black smock, cards (from family and church choir) and the best part, a mother/daughter book that my mom filled with pictures of us from our European Adventure. Tears galore! I even had Lynsey crying. I read, and reread the book, laughing at every picture.
Working with Chris today, (very particular on 15min breaks) came over and said `Creighton! It`s been 20-oh...I`ll see you down there when you`re ready.` Leaving my snack, I went upstairs to puy my package away. When i came back down, my apple slices were gone. I asked Chris where they went and he wouldn`t tell me. Thinking he threw them out, I was a little annoyed and marched back to work. Only once I got downstairs did I see that he had set them on a stool beside where I was working. So cute.
9 May: At least I tried to hike today. I picked a route and planned things out for my day off, but once again, I over slept. Instead, Lynseywoke me up at 11am and said `Since you `re not hiking, do you want to come shopping in Thun this afternoon?` Why not, like dad says, it`s just a different type of hiking.
10 May: Happy Mothers Day! Today was the world cup finals for IIHF: Canada vs Russia. Inviting everyone down to Dessies for the game, we had 4 Canadians and one Russian, so it was very entertaining. Dressed up with hockey jerseys, hats, and some face paint, we sat right in front of the TV, so no one could stand in our way. With a final score of 2-1 Russia, it was a good game, sloppy towards the end, but clean, just I like. After the Russians won, Burky (bartender) went to David and said `You buying a round?` So David emptied his pocket (2.50) and just looked at him. Burey disappeared for a few seconds, comes back with vodka shots for everyone and says `I`ll take that 2.50 now.`We also stood for the Russian National Anthem, before I biked home.
12 May: Today Geoff, Lynsey and I went to the hospital to see the Cheif Surgeon regarding Lynsey`S finger. Taking 2 1/2 hours, it was determined she didn`t need surgery, but would start egro-therpy. Sweet! She`s feeling much better now, so I`m happy.
I have to now update my journal, and will get back to you on the past couple of day, but it was very cool, so sit in suspense. :)
Love,
Creighton
Saturday, May 9, 2009
9 May 2009
It feels like just yesterday I wrote on my blog, but a lifetime of memories have happened since then. First, let me apologize for not writing soon, I realize it`s almost been a month since I last wrote, but things here just get so crazy, and so busy and so fun, you kind of forget about the world outside KISC.
Let`s recap the last month:
22 April: Tonight was Staff Night out and we went to Bern for a movie (the new Fast and Furious movie). The whole night consisted of driving for an hour, watching the 2 hour movie, and driving home for an hour. Odd lenghts just to see a movie, but it was worth it. As we were filing into the movie, Felipe (BR) turns to me and says `Can I sit beside you?' -sure- `You can hold my hand if you get scared.` -It`s not a scary movie, Felipe- `You can still hold my hand` *Big Smile*. What a kidder, although he was very entertaining to sit beside. It was also Rakel`s birthday today, so we had cake! Banana- my fav.
23 April: Today, Lynsey and I had the day off and went shopping in Bern. We also took Margot (Holand) who is on a two wekk internship. Getting up at 10, we made it to Bern just after lunch and stayed until 5, making it home just in time for dinner. Once there, we made it to the Bear Pits (which normally consist of 3 or 4 bears, but only one was awake when we went), and then worked our way to the Munster, which is agreat Cathedral where you can climb up the tower to the top and see all of Bern. While the walk was long (more than 300 steps), it was most definately worth the burning sensation in my legs. Coming down again, we had lunch in a park along the river, and then it was time to SHOP! Don`t worry dad, I only bought one thing, and it was only 10 CHF, so I did pretty good. The music conservatory didn`t have a gift shop, but the candy shop did have a slide into it (I may have run out the store so I could go down the slide again...and again...until I got dirty looks. Tonight we`re celebrating Rakel`s birthday at Chalet Over-There, so that`s bound to be fun.
24 April: So last night, as you know, we celebrated Rakel`s birthday with a bonfire at Chalet Over-There. Hightlights include when Rakel invited passing army men to join on bonfire, and then giving them free beer, and Felipe and Dave `fighting`for me, lol..
25 April: Strip the Willow!! Tonight was a dance at `Our Chalet` (the girl guide centre in Adelboden). Orginally thinking it was more of a disco, it was good ol`fashion partner dancing with lots of sipping and circles (yes, I got a little dizzy). My favourite part of the night was dancing with Alex. In one dance you turned to you partner, two steps ot, tow steps in and 4 counts to dance as you wish. Everyone was keeping in style with their 4 counts, but Alex and I were breaking out the robot (a very bad one), and club stlye dancing, all to traditional Scottish music. Halarious. As were are Team Awesome (formed one day in Kanderlodge), we made a statue, handshake, method of countin, and a sign. We were pretty busy. After the dances we played sardines (similar to hide and seek) and hide and seek. I am proud to say, I was not found in Hide and Seek! All-in-all it was a good night, ending with Lynsey falling asleep on my sholder on the ride home.
27 April: HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVEN! Whiel nothing voerly exciting has heppened today, I would like to note that it is CRAZY snowing. It hasn`t started to cellect but big, fat, wet flakes are shooing down. It`s ridiculous.
1 May 2009: Tonight was International Night, so Rob and I had a Canada table equiped with badeges, hockey jerseys, and pancakes (which were a big hit). I also tried noodles from Korea, Scones from England, Vodka from Russia....but passed on the fish oil from Iceland (she drinks it straight from the bottle! YUCK!)
3 May 2009: Late friday night, Lynesy`s family arrive in Kandersteg, and the following day, Lynesy and I both took the day off together, with them. Starting with a sleep-in, we went to a chocolate factory, a cheese facory, a quaint village, and out for dinner, it was an awesome day.
At the chocolate factory we ate WAY to much chocolate, (free unguarded samples- MISTAKE). Getting in the car after, we were all quiet, trying to hit the curves as smooth as possible. By the time we reached the cheese factory, we were feeling much better and had a riot listening to `Cherry the Cow`on the audio sets. Today, I was working in catering, and had so much fun. Time might be one of my favourite LTS here. Finishing early at lunch, we had break until 4:30! So I layed in the sun with everyone, and played with Willow before Lynsey got back and we (Lynsey, Mr Waters, Mrs Waters, Mark, Scorpio and I) headed to the marmotte for cakes. Sitting on the patio, I manages to get sunburnt, even with sunscreen on. The best part was in the kids playground on this spinny thing that Mark FLEW off of. He scraped his sholder pretty good, but it was still funny! I walked in my room just before dinner to find a card and small present from Gillian. I let her borrow my camping bad whilshe went on vacation, sailing. This card was accompanied by Dariy Milk Chocolate and a small bean bag salamander. In Mallorca (or wherever she went), Salamanders are suppsed to bring good luck, which is why she chose that. How cute is she?
--
That`s all I have written in my journal now, and I am currently late for lunch, so I`ll update my journal, and then update here, soon....I hope.
Love,
Creighton
Let`s recap the last month:
22 April: Tonight was Staff Night out and we went to Bern for a movie (the new Fast and Furious movie). The whole night consisted of driving for an hour, watching the 2 hour movie, and driving home for an hour. Odd lenghts just to see a movie, but it was worth it. As we were filing into the movie, Felipe (BR) turns to me and says `Can I sit beside you?' -sure- `You can hold my hand if you get scared.` -It`s not a scary movie, Felipe- `You can still hold my hand` *Big Smile*. What a kidder, although he was very entertaining to sit beside. It was also Rakel`s birthday today, so we had cake! Banana- my fav.
23 April: Today, Lynsey and I had the day off and went shopping in Bern. We also took Margot (Holand) who is on a two wekk internship. Getting up at 10, we made it to Bern just after lunch and stayed until 5, making it home just in time for dinner. Once there, we made it to the Bear Pits (which normally consist of 3 or 4 bears, but only one was awake when we went), and then worked our way to the Munster, which is agreat Cathedral where you can climb up the tower to the top and see all of Bern. While the walk was long (more than 300 steps), it was most definately worth the burning sensation in my legs. Coming down again, we had lunch in a park along the river, and then it was time to SHOP! Don`t worry dad, I only bought one thing, and it was only 10 CHF, so I did pretty good. The music conservatory didn`t have a gift shop, but the candy shop did have a slide into it (I may have run out the store so I could go down the slide again...and again...until I got dirty looks. Tonight we`re celebrating Rakel`s birthday at Chalet Over-There, so that`s bound to be fun.
24 April: So last night, as you know, we celebrated Rakel`s birthday with a bonfire at Chalet Over-There. Hightlights include when Rakel invited passing army men to join on bonfire, and then giving them free beer, and Felipe and Dave `fighting`for me, lol..
25 April: Strip the Willow!! Tonight was a dance at `Our Chalet` (the girl guide centre in Adelboden). Orginally thinking it was more of a disco, it was good ol`fashion partner dancing with lots of sipping and circles (yes, I got a little dizzy). My favourite part of the night was dancing with Alex. In one dance you turned to you partner, two steps ot, tow steps in and 4 counts to dance as you wish. Everyone was keeping in style with their 4 counts, but Alex and I were breaking out the robot (a very bad one), and club stlye dancing, all to traditional Scottish music. Halarious. As were are Team Awesome (formed one day in Kanderlodge), we made a statue, handshake, method of countin, and a sign. We were pretty busy. After the dances we played sardines (similar to hide and seek) and hide and seek. I am proud to say, I was not found in Hide and Seek! All-in-all it was a good night, ending with Lynsey falling asleep on my sholder on the ride home.
27 April: HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVEN! Whiel nothing voerly exciting has heppened today, I would like to note that it is CRAZY snowing. It hasn`t started to cellect but big, fat, wet flakes are shooing down. It`s ridiculous.
1 May 2009: Tonight was International Night, so Rob and I had a Canada table equiped with badeges, hockey jerseys, and pancakes (which were a big hit). I also tried noodles from Korea, Scones from England, Vodka from Russia....but passed on the fish oil from Iceland (she drinks it straight from the bottle! YUCK!)
3 May 2009: Late friday night, Lynesy`s family arrive in Kandersteg, and the following day, Lynesy and I both took the day off together, with them. Starting with a sleep-in, we went to a chocolate factory, a cheese facory, a quaint village, and out for dinner, it was an awesome day.
At the chocolate factory we ate WAY to much chocolate, (free unguarded samples- MISTAKE). Getting in the car after, we were all quiet, trying to hit the curves as smooth as possible. By the time we reached the cheese factory, we were feeling much better and had a riot listening to `Cherry the Cow`on the audio sets. Today, I was working in catering, and had so much fun. Time might be one of my favourite LTS here. Finishing early at lunch, we had break until 4:30! So I layed in the sun with everyone, and played with Willow before Lynsey got back and we (Lynsey, Mr Waters, Mrs Waters, Mark, Scorpio and I) headed to the marmotte for cakes. Sitting on the patio, I manages to get sunburnt, even with sunscreen on. The best part was in the kids playground on this spinny thing that Mark FLEW off of. He scraped his sholder pretty good, but it was still funny! I walked in my room just before dinner to find a card and small present from Gillian. I let her borrow my camping bad whilshe went on vacation, sailing. This card was accompanied by Dariy Milk Chocolate and a small bean bag salamander. In Mallorca (or wherever she went), Salamanders are suppsed to bring good luck, which is why she chose that. How cute is she?
--
That`s all I have written in my journal now, and I am currently late for lunch, so I`ll update my journal, and then update here, soon....I hope.
Love,
Creighton
Saturday, April 18, 2009
18 April 2009
I know, it`s crazy! I just blogged yesterday, and here I am blogging again. It`s Crazy!!!
Today was a lot of fun, which was surprising considering I was in House. I started the morning by cleaning toilets, not a whole lot of fun, but I had fun rocking out to music. I then mopped floors, and yelled at everyone who walked over them. I think it should be a sport- because THAT was a lot of fun too. (I must have sleep deprevation to find all this funy). LUNCH. After lunch, it was just Nalaka (Sri Lanka), Lou (Italy) and myself in House, so we didn`t do too much. Nalaka and I deep cleaned a bathroom and seeing as he had a big knife (about a foot long, but very very dull) I did all the cleaning he asked me to. lol.
Then, Lou told me to find work to keep me busy. So I folded towels (that Nalaka promptly unfolded.....twice), and fixed my shoes (again). Then, I had the great idea to return a favour for Felipe (Brazil). While cleaning the bathrooms earlier today, he came in a got me pretty good with this little water gun. So Lou and I found many water guns (a little bigger) and got five of us together to ambush him. After that, we wanted to get anyone we could. Up next: Chris (UK). While originally he wasn`t so much fun (he just stood there and took it), he eventually got the hose and soaked Ah Ruem (South Korea). Trying to get him with a piddly water gun while he had a hose, wasn`t very fair and I got hit as I was running up the stairs. Mind you, just before this I was trying to turn the hose off, which is when he came after me. Continuing to play with water guns, the Kanderlodge people came out, and I didn`t really notice until Michael (Germany)came up behind me, and held my arms while Chris (UK) came up and DRENCHED me with the hose. So I properly tackeled him after, just to make sure he got wet.
By this time it was dinner, so I quickly put on a different Pink (our uniform shirt) so I wouldn`t drip all over the table and ate dinner. I am now dry, but still a little cold....and plotting on how to get him back.
Tonight there`s a free live band at some bar I haven`t been to, so we`ll head there, but probably end up at Dessies, like we always do.
Tomorrow I`m back in the Archive Room with Irakqui (Germany). I was in there yesterday, but we didn`t finish yet. In the Archive Room, we get to go through every document and determine if we have to keep it (financials: 10 years, guest records: 3 years, historical value: forever etc) or not. It`s a little boring, but you know me, I love organizing and it`s driving me crazy that it`s not done yet. So tomorrow I`ll finish it and feel much better.
Love,
Creighton
Today was a lot of fun, which was surprising considering I was in House. I started the morning by cleaning toilets, not a whole lot of fun, but I had fun rocking out to music. I then mopped floors, and yelled at everyone who walked over them. I think it should be a sport- because THAT was a lot of fun too. (I must have sleep deprevation to find all this funy). LUNCH. After lunch, it was just Nalaka (Sri Lanka), Lou (Italy) and myself in House, so we didn`t do too much. Nalaka and I deep cleaned a bathroom and seeing as he had a big knife (about a foot long, but very very dull) I did all the cleaning he asked me to. lol.
Then, Lou told me to find work to keep me busy. So I folded towels (that Nalaka promptly unfolded.....twice), and fixed my shoes (again). Then, I had the great idea to return a favour for Felipe (Brazil). While cleaning the bathrooms earlier today, he came in a got me pretty good with this little water gun. So Lou and I found many water guns (a little bigger) and got five of us together to ambush him. After that, we wanted to get anyone we could. Up next: Chris (UK). While originally he wasn`t so much fun (he just stood there and took it), he eventually got the hose and soaked Ah Ruem (South Korea). Trying to get him with a piddly water gun while he had a hose, wasn`t very fair and I got hit as I was running up the stairs. Mind you, just before this I was trying to turn the hose off, which is when he came after me. Continuing to play with water guns, the Kanderlodge people came out, and I didn`t really notice until Michael (Germany)came up behind me, and held my arms while Chris (UK) came up and DRENCHED me with the hose. So I properly tackeled him after, just to make sure he got wet.
By this time it was dinner, so I quickly put on a different Pink (our uniform shirt) so I wouldn`t drip all over the table and ate dinner. I am now dry, but still a little cold....and plotting on how to get him back.
Tonight there`s a free live band at some bar I haven`t been to, so we`ll head there, but probably end up at Dessies, like we always do.
Tomorrow I`m back in the Archive Room with Irakqui (Germany). I was in there yesterday, but we didn`t finish yet. In the Archive Room, we get to go through every document and determine if we have to keep it (financials: 10 years, guest records: 3 years, historical value: forever etc) or not. It`s a little boring, but you know me, I love organizing and it`s driving me crazy that it`s not done yet. So tomorrow I`ll finish it and feel much better.
Love,
Creighton
Thursday, April 16, 2009
16 April 2009
I know, it`s been more than a week this time, but time flies by here. I sware it was only yesterday that I wrote, but meanwhile so much has happened.
This past weekend was Easter Weekend, while trying to get to all the masses I could, I was also left in charge of caterering while Tim went on a conference in Norway. It was a little stressful, but so utterly amazing that they have that much confidence in me that they can put me in charge for four amazing days. To make things EVEN better, I was sick. I couldn`t breath through my nose, I was coughing every few seconds, and I can`t hear out of one ear. I know, I`m pretty messed up, as mom says, all the fresh air and hard work is making me sick.
Let`s go through what`s happened since last time:
8 April- Lynsey and I had the day off and went to Interlaken. The town itself wasn`t horribly exciting, but there was a Des Alpes (bar that we also have here in Kandersteg), and a tour on a little train that we took. It was very funny. I also managed to break a bracket off my braces while eating a granola bar, and Lynsey had to help cut the extra wire. It`s not a problem as I have tons of wax and it doesn`t bother me that much. I did manage to swallow the bracket though, so that should be interesting later.... That night was Staff Night out, but it was more like Staff Night In, as we had a toga party in the Staff Lounge. It was really funny, and a lot of gross drinks, but I still loved it.
9 April- Holy Thursday and I managed to get to mass. As my first day in charge of caterering, I was a little stressed out, but Lynsey was prepared and gave me extra hugs to help out. I love her. Mass was at a Catholic Church, but in German and at 5:45pm because the priest has to come from a city on the other side of the mountain (Oh Switzerland!). It was still a very nice mass, and I could follow along considering the format is the same as the English Catholic Mass. In the whole building there were 15 of us, which included myself, the Priest, the organist, lecturers EVERYONE. I also think I was the youngest by a good 40 years.
10 April- Good Friday, and I managed to get to mass again. Unfortunately the Catholic Church didn`t have a mass, but the Protestant Church did, and Gillian and I snuck away for it. The best part was at the end of the mass we sang Donna Nobis in three parts, exactly the same as we sing at home. It was very fitting, and made me feel a little more contected with everyone at home. That night was Indy`s (GB) last night, so we went to Des Alpes for a send off party. I`ll miss her, my Madagascar buddy.
11 April- I didn`t manage to get to mass (which is really odd because it`s the mass i LOVE to go to at home), but we has a massive campfire including the staff skit, which was halarious. I love Kandersteg and I love the people here. I did miss home, and it didn`t help that I was sick, but Lynsey was always there for me.
12 April- Happy Easter. In the middle of the night, Dave snuck in and put a chocolate bunny under all our pillows, how cute. I woke up, but was too tired to say anything, but I definately thanked him once I got up. Gillian also gave everyone a Cadbury Cream Egg claiming they were sent by the Easter Bunny. That night, Gillian, Irakqui, Ah Ruem, David and I went to the Catholic Church and I was again, in charge of caterering.
13 April- Staff Night Out again and this time was a BBQ on the campsite. It wasn`t too exciting, but I did go for one beer before going to bed by 10pm (Lynsey had gone to bed early too, so I`m not the only pathetic one here).
14 April- Day off and boy was it BEAUTIFUL. This day, Gillian booked the car and her, myself and Lynsey drove to Bern for a couple of hours, followed by Trummelbach Falls. AMAZING. The falls are actually 10 different falls INSIDE the mountain that are composed of almsot 20 different glacial slabs. It was a little chilly, but all together beautiful. I`ll have to get pictures up soon, because I can`t explain how awesome they were. If you ever go to Switzerland, make sure you see these. The day was finished with some girly gossip, and back in time for dinner.
15 April- Lou (Italy) came back yesterday, so we had a girly night and watched `How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days`at her flat. The funny thing was, by the time we started the movie we had 4 guys there (two that live there, and two buddies), but we weren`t changing our movie selection, and they knew it.
16 April- Today I`m on duty (alone this time, not under training) and it`s not that bad. I`ve, for the most part, stayed away from people like Tim and Andrew, so they won`t prank call me, but I have had some strange calls from real people. I think at lunch I had 10 different calls, some people were really nice, and others were a little nasty, but I survived. Only 2 hours left, and I can put the phone away and go to bed. Everyone else is at another campfire tonight, but the weather is a little ugly, so I`m not completely upset that I`m missing it. I only hope I don`t fall asleep before 10:30!!! Wish me luck!!
Creighton Avery
This past weekend was Easter Weekend, while trying to get to all the masses I could, I was also left in charge of caterering while Tim went on a conference in Norway. It was a little stressful, but so utterly amazing that they have that much confidence in me that they can put me in charge for four amazing days. To make things EVEN better, I was sick. I couldn`t breath through my nose, I was coughing every few seconds, and I can`t hear out of one ear. I know, I`m pretty messed up, as mom says, all the fresh air and hard work is making me sick.
Let`s go through what`s happened since last time:
8 April- Lynsey and I had the day off and went to Interlaken. The town itself wasn`t horribly exciting, but there was a Des Alpes (bar that we also have here in Kandersteg), and a tour on a little train that we took. It was very funny. I also managed to break a bracket off my braces while eating a granola bar, and Lynsey had to help cut the extra wire. It`s not a problem as I have tons of wax and it doesn`t bother me that much. I did manage to swallow the bracket though, so that should be interesting later.... That night was Staff Night out, but it was more like Staff Night In, as we had a toga party in the Staff Lounge. It was really funny, and a lot of gross drinks, but I still loved it.
9 April- Holy Thursday and I managed to get to mass. As my first day in charge of caterering, I was a little stressed out, but Lynsey was prepared and gave me extra hugs to help out. I love her. Mass was at a Catholic Church, but in German and at 5:45pm because the priest has to come from a city on the other side of the mountain (Oh Switzerland!). It was still a very nice mass, and I could follow along considering the format is the same as the English Catholic Mass. In the whole building there were 15 of us, which included myself, the Priest, the organist, lecturers EVERYONE. I also think I was the youngest by a good 40 years.
10 April- Good Friday, and I managed to get to mass again. Unfortunately the Catholic Church didn`t have a mass, but the Protestant Church did, and Gillian and I snuck away for it. The best part was at the end of the mass we sang Donna Nobis in three parts, exactly the same as we sing at home. It was very fitting, and made me feel a little more contected with everyone at home. That night was Indy`s (GB) last night, so we went to Des Alpes for a send off party. I`ll miss her, my Madagascar buddy.
11 April- I didn`t manage to get to mass (which is really odd because it`s the mass i LOVE to go to at home), but we has a massive campfire including the staff skit, which was halarious. I love Kandersteg and I love the people here. I did miss home, and it didn`t help that I was sick, but Lynsey was always there for me.
12 April- Happy Easter. In the middle of the night, Dave snuck in and put a chocolate bunny under all our pillows, how cute. I woke up, but was too tired to say anything, but I definately thanked him once I got up. Gillian also gave everyone a Cadbury Cream Egg claiming they were sent by the Easter Bunny. That night, Gillian, Irakqui, Ah Ruem, David and I went to the Catholic Church and I was again, in charge of caterering.
13 April- Staff Night Out again and this time was a BBQ on the campsite. It wasn`t too exciting, but I did go for one beer before going to bed by 10pm (Lynsey had gone to bed early too, so I`m not the only pathetic one here).
14 April- Day off and boy was it BEAUTIFUL. This day, Gillian booked the car and her, myself and Lynsey drove to Bern for a couple of hours, followed by Trummelbach Falls. AMAZING. The falls are actually 10 different falls INSIDE the mountain that are composed of almsot 20 different glacial slabs. It was a little chilly, but all together beautiful. I`ll have to get pictures up soon, because I can`t explain how awesome they were. If you ever go to Switzerland, make sure you see these. The day was finished with some girly gossip, and back in time for dinner.
15 April- Lou (Italy) came back yesterday, so we had a girly night and watched `How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days`at her flat. The funny thing was, by the time we started the movie we had 4 guys there (two that live there, and two buddies), but we weren`t changing our movie selection, and they knew it.
16 April- Today I`m on duty (alone this time, not under training) and it`s not that bad. I`ve, for the most part, stayed away from people like Tim and Andrew, so they won`t prank call me, but I have had some strange calls from real people. I think at lunch I had 10 different calls, some people were really nice, and others were a little nasty, but I survived. Only 2 hours left, and I can put the phone away and go to bed. Everyone else is at another campfire tonight, but the weather is a little ugly, so I`m not completely upset that I`m missing it. I only hope I don`t fall asleep before 10:30!!! Wish me luck!!
Creighton Avery
Sunday, April 5, 2009
5 April 2009
I can`t believe it`s been a week since my last blog. Everything is so crazy here, but crazy is a good thing. We`ve been really busy, and when not busy, I desprately need my sleep.
Mike (UK, Grounds) arrived this week, and we already feel like family. On his second day here I was mopping the floor, and without realizing it, he walked all over it. I gave him a look and he quickly said `Sorry, Love you!` Something I would say to someone after months of knowing them, but this is what KISC does to you, you become family in a very very short period of time. Last night was Anna`s birthday, and today is Kike`s, so we`ve had a lot of cake.
Today I`m in Catering, but before that I was in Kanderlodge for two days. The first day, I was helping assemble beds, and then yesterday we were planeing them. When we got to Kanderlodge yesterday, Paul (in charge of Kanderlodge) said, `Who knows how to plane?`Lynsey replied `What`s plane?`
Paul said `You`re not doing it.`
So I explained what it was, and what it was used for, so Paul turns to me and says `You can do it`So I spent all day planeing, but it was still pretty fun. I worked with Mark (UK, Helper) and we had a lot of fun. Instead of Planeing, Lynsey got to paint ceilings (thanks dad for teaching me what a planer was) and also decided to attack everyone with the paint. I was the only one to escape, because I ran away in time, but the others had warrior paint, or mustaches made of paint.
The weather here has been a little crazy. Last weekend we had a snow storm, but today, it`s probably 11 degrees outside (celcius) and the snow is retreating quickly. As Mark puts it `It`s a beautiful day, perfect for avalanches`and sure enough, we had two avalances yesterday. Don`t worry, we`re not in the range to be hit, which is a good thing.
I still love it here, and can`t believe I`m a quarter way through. I`m dreading leaving, even though it`s still over two months away. No time to worry about that now, I`m in charge of dinner again- wish me luck!
Creighton Avery
Mike (UK, Grounds) arrived this week, and we already feel like family. On his second day here I was mopping the floor, and without realizing it, he walked all over it. I gave him a look and he quickly said `Sorry, Love you!` Something I would say to someone after months of knowing them, but this is what KISC does to you, you become family in a very very short period of time. Last night was Anna`s birthday, and today is Kike`s, so we`ve had a lot of cake.
Today I`m in Catering, but before that I was in Kanderlodge for two days. The first day, I was helping assemble beds, and then yesterday we were planeing them. When we got to Kanderlodge yesterday, Paul (in charge of Kanderlodge) said, `Who knows how to plane?`Lynsey replied `What`s plane?`
Paul said `You`re not doing it.`
So I explained what it was, and what it was used for, so Paul turns to me and says `You can do it`So I spent all day planeing, but it was still pretty fun. I worked with Mark (UK, Helper) and we had a lot of fun. Instead of Planeing, Lynsey got to paint ceilings (thanks dad for teaching me what a planer was) and also decided to attack everyone with the paint. I was the only one to escape, because I ran away in time, but the others had warrior paint, or mustaches made of paint.
The weather here has been a little crazy. Last weekend we had a snow storm, but today, it`s probably 11 degrees outside (celcius) and the snow is retreating quickly. As Mark puts it `It`s a beautiful day, perfect for avalanches`and sure enough, we had two avalances yesterday. Don`t worry, we`re not in the range to be hit, which is a good thing.
I still love it here, and can`t believe I`m a quarter way through. I`m dreading leaving, even though it`s still over two months away. No time to worry about that now, I`m in charge of dinner again- wish me luck!
Creighton Avery
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
