We've just returned from a weekend in the Norwegian wilderness. Hildy, our team administrator, organised the trip for the annual weekend away for our ultimate team the Fugazees. Her family owns a cabin in the hills near a small town called Prestfoss, which is about a 2 hour drive west from Oslo.

Initially, I had been a little dubious about the whole event. Hildy had explained that the cabin had no electricity and no running water. I imagined sleeping in a one room hut, huddled by the fire, trying not to choke on the fumes produced by smelly boys who hadn't had a shower for three days. Not exactly my idea of fun. But, I'll try anything once, so I quashed my reservations and we signed up for the Norwegian wilderness experience.

I'm happy to report that my fears were completely unfounded. Yes, there was no running water or electricity but it certainly wasn't rustic. The cabin consisted of four bedrooms, a dining area and living room. Although there wasn't any running water, there was a indoor biological toilet. No electricity, but a solar charged battery provided power for a few lights and even a television. It was actually quite luxurious.

We had a lovely weekend. We spent our days hiking in the snow, chucking a disc around, playing ultimate, tobogganing down the hill outside and reading by the fire. (Ultimate players manage to play ultimate anywhere.) As Australians, we don't get to see snow very often so we kinda reverted to childhood. There was lots of playing, diving into the snowdrifts, throwing snowballs and general silliness. We spent our evenings chatting, learning useful Norwegian words (kne, panne, det snør) and playing games such as KerPlunk and Diminishing Whist (another four converts!).

Hildy's wonderful parents wanted us to eat authentic Norwegian meal, so they cooked us a delicious reindeer stew to eat for dinner on day 1. We also had a true Norwegian breakfast each morning: bread, herring, caviar, mayonnaise, Jarlsberg cheese and salami. It was such a great way to start each day. Maybe one day I'll get around to doing the same at home.

It was a great weekend. I really can't imagine a better way to experience Norway. Takk to Hildegunn and the Andersen family.
More photos on Flickr...

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I just managed to squeeze this note in; today has been kind of hectic. I've spent the day doing laundry and packing for my trip home to Australia. I'm heading home tomorrow, arriving Wednesday. Andrew is leaving Sunday and arriving Monday. The main reason for our trip is Emily and Goldy's wedding. Of course, I'm also very excited about seeing my family and catching up with our friends. Oh, and a little warm weather wouldn't hurt either. See you soon Sydney-siders.