Here I am in Davos, Switzerland, for the tenth time. As usual, it’s cold here, and the snow crystals are sparkling in the bright sunshine. Davos is a familiar place for cross-country skiers, but it is also known as a hot spot for jet-setters. There are quite a lot of expensive slalom outfits to observe, and sophisticated madams who spend most of their time shopping in the exclusive jewellery stores.

To win races gives you an incredible good feeling. It’s hard to describe the feeling when the adrenaline is flowing, you're facing the challenge, and you have perfect skis. This is the sensation I’m after in every race...

So far this winter, my skating has been poor. Let me assure you that I have tried very hard, for days, months, even years, to improve. But, the results have been disappointing. My patience is now almost up, and as I’m no longer considered young and promising, I am considering to give priority to the style I am good at. As a concequense of this, I am going to skip both the 15 km free in Ramsau on December 22, and the two sprint competitions which will take place in Central Europe between Christmas and New Years.

This gives me the opportunity to stay at home in Norway for one and a half week around Christmas time. Pure luxury which I will certainly enjoy the best I can. I’m hoping for a white Christmas at home in Nittedal. This would allow me to stay at home during the festive season, eat well, relax, and train so that I will be able to climb the steep uphills in Salt Lake City with ease.

The advent period in Central Europe is devoid of Christmassy atmosphere, and there is no smell of “gløgg” (which is a bit similar to ‘glühwein’) or gingerbread. I managed to buy some Christmas presents at the beginning of November, so that when I return home on December 20, there will be time enough to clean the house and decorate the Christmas tree.

No Christmas programmes on tv, no cold December nights in front of the fireplace, and no baking of Christmas cookies for me this year either. The hunt for World Cup points is still my main preoccupation. I have a fantastic husband who understands my priorities and my extreme situation, and he’s waiting for me to come home so we can celebrate Christmas together.

I hope you all have had an eventful and exciting advent period so far. I wish you a peaceful and relaxing Christmas together with your families and friends.

Merry Advent to all of you.


Greetings from

Bente