Awards Ceremony

I don't like to count my chickens before they hatch. I didn't know if I would be getting a medal today or not. Expectations lead to disappointment, so I can just do my best all of the time and hope that it turns out well.

Brons medal recipients are called up first. It was a little confusing what order they were called in. I heard the names of people who danced after me. Then, I heard the names of people who danced before me. I was giving myself a pep talk that it would be ok if I hadn't passed. Afterall, I had a fabulous time, and I've been telling everyone I was here to have fun. I clearly had fun.

Then they called my name. There is no way to express in words how happy and relieved I was! I got a big hug from Bengt Wittgren when he handed me my medal and another one from P-O when he gave me my certificate. I made it back off the floor before looking at my diplom.

Let me explain. They put adjectives on the certificates. The adjectives describe how you danced and there is a lot of value placed on what words are written there. They range from 'good' to 'exciting'. I got musikalisk och följsamt - musical and following (women tend to get that, it's a compliment). I am very happy with my adjectives. My medal is safe with Tom and my certificate is safe with Elaine.

I said a teary goodbye at the train station. I grabbed a seat and thought of how much fun I'd had, how I'd miss everyone, and what an adventure I was setting out on. I looked through all of the pictures on my camera. I cried as I headed to Norway, facing Sweden, with a heavy heart. I'll miss you, and see you soon. The train to Bodø is waiting for me now. I'll be up north in the morning!

Update: If you squint really hard, you can see me leaving the floor, clutching my diplom in the picture!