Cabin trip

Linjeuka started with glorious weather and a minibus trip to Engerdal and a cabin trip. With some social value exercises, a Yatzy tournament, joint cooking and a music quiz - yes, just like a cabin trip should be.

Utoya

From a cabin trip to Utøya is an abrupt transition, but also an example of what life is like.

After two hours we were at Utstranda and the newly opened memorial to those killed on Utøya and at the government quarter on 22 July 2011.

With a feeling of excitement and discomfort, we took MS Torbjørn over to the island. With young, knowledgeable Tiril as guide, we got an emotionally strong tour. In the later beautiful summer weather, the contrast between the island's beauty and the terrible history became even greater.

A lovely camp site with important history, which our 19-year-olds got to hear, see and feel. Everything from hurtful text messages between homes and victims, to bullet holes and images of desperate young people trying to swim away from the terrorist. You don't need many hours on Utøya to build emotionally strong stories to take into the future.

The intention to take the island back - take democracy back is also very important. It's really good for zealots and survivors. Utøya lives for people, and with people who want to get involved.

Cooking competition with African food

On Thursday, it was ready for the cooking competition with the task "make a three-course African-inspired meal in two hours.

According to our eminent judging panel with chefs Gunn Tove and Ketil, as well as kitchen assistant Renee and super amateur chef and music teacher Arild, all six dishes were highly appreciated, albeit with a winning group.

Barely finished eating, it was on to "Friend in everyday life" where we visit old, lonely people for a little coffee break.

Red Cross

After several student talks on Thursday evening, we were ready for a visit by Elverum Red Cross and Hedmark Red Cross on Friday.

Here we got an introduction to what the Red Cross stands for, and what activities they carry out. But even more important was getting good ideas, tips and formal important things that we need before we start with Kompis/Treffpunkt.

Kompis aims to improve the inclusion of young refugees in Elverum through activities at Elverum Folkehøgskole, playing padel, bowling, going to the cinema, cooking, going on a walk/picnic, playing board games or dancing, etc.

Tomorrow is Saturday and cleaning day. All our good old DVDs and games will be prepared for good autumn evenings at Elverum. A contrasting and a very good week, I think.