Browse

Ski Trip News

1

Day 7

Snow condition:  perfect

Weather:  snowy and windy  (-8)
Tears:  0
Major injury:  0 (hoorah we made it - so far!)
Fun factor:  10000000/10
Our final day skiing and there was an air of sadness in the air as we have become accustomed to our routine, we are even getting used to the noisy Irish school who are obviously not used to sharing accommodation with others!  
Rest easy reader, we had our usual driver!  We even forgave him for yet another head on collision because he's ours and we know that he will expertly deliver a tirade of Bulgarian abuse at the offender, in fact the Bulgarians must be excellent lip readers as he continually shouts at oncoming traffic, pedestrians and anything else that threatens our progress.
Donning our ski boots and collecting our skis has become a slick operation.  Most girls can even do their own boots up now and then we clomp off to negotiate the assortment of stairs, other people with unwieldy skis and icey ramp that Tekeshi Castle would be proud of.  Somehow we have successfully made it to the slopes every day without causing any major injury to ourselves or others (perhaps this is some sort of initiation process - if you can make it out of the building, you'll be fine on the slopes!).
We are collected by our respective instructor and then we're off - yippee!  Until we come to the chair lift where we are greeted by a queue of Bulgarian weekend skiers - doh!  The trees at the nursery slope breathe a sigh of relief as all those who want to ski have made it to the slopes. 
The teachers formed a splinter group and skied off thinking that they were in the safe hands of Mr Donaldson, who has been to this resort a number of times.  It wasn't long before we were boldly flying down a red run that had been classed as a black run not that long ago.  We quickly demoted Mr D to the back of the group where he was told to think about his recklessness and only come to the front when he was sorry!
The day was a day of firsts and lasts.  It's the first time that some of us attempt a red run and it's the last time that we can indulge in the scrummy hot chocolate.  It's also the first time that Mr Patterson experienced a ski lift.  He didn't go to ski, but just for the ride.  For those who escorted him onto the lift were severely disappointed as we didn't get the reaction we thought, there was no panic or screaming.  Oh well, we've still the bus journey to the airport!
Tonight we received our certificates.  The beginners all received A or A* and were thoroughly chuffed with their achievements, then the intermediates got theirs - they attained Cs.  Imagine the ridicule.... Until they found out that skiing grades start at A and go up to C as you improve!  Oh how we laughed!
The girls finished off the holiday with a disco, where Mrs Mullaney cut a few moves.  To see the girls jump around, you would not have thought that they'd skied for a week!
Well, what a week!  We've really enjoyed the experience and are sort of sad about leaving.  Hopefully we will return and we are extremely grateful to Mrs McLees for organising such an enjoyable and memorable trip, when's the next one?

Date Posted: Saturday 18th February,2012 10:03 pm

Day 6

Snow condition:  perfect

Weather:  snowy and v cold (-10)
Tears:  1
Major injury:  0 
Fun factor:  10/10
Well dear reader, you may have guessed that we were all feeling a bit weary last night, which is typical for a skiing holiday.  For some reason, we think that we can leave the warmth of our trusty classrooms and ski for a week (which, I have to say, is blooming exhausting work!).  But never fear, we are feeling much chipper, in fact, it could be safe to say, we are getting used to this skiing malarkey!
As you will know, it was snowing last night and it continued to snow for most of the day, but that was no problem to us hardened skiers.  In fact some of the group felt that goggles and hats were for wimps (you have to admire the Northern Irish pluck).  So after a quick reshuffle of equipment, we felt that we were prepared for the slopes and readied ourselves to embark the bus.  You can imagine our confusion and consternation when a different bus pulled up and if that wasn't bad enough, they'd given us a different bus driver!  Don't they  know that we don't like change?  We were growing rather fond of our long haired, telephone talking, smoking driver, you may even say that we were becoming friends!! Once we had gathered ourselves, we boarded this unfamiliar bus and gave the stranger a nervous smile. He in return, gave us something of a grimace, perhaps in Bulgarian terms, it would have been classed as a warm smile.  So off we set, new bus, new driver and not forgetting new snow.  It transpired that new bus driver was a speed freak, which is ok on clear, wide roads, but when you consider the new snow and tight bends, we were somewhat twitchy by the time we disembarked!
Once on the slopes, our nerves soon dissipated and the majority of us were merrily snow ploughing our way down the mountain, which seemed less dangerous after our recent journey!  
The intermediate group had a sedate day, although Mr McLees (a.k.a. the blog hogger) decided that he'd outgrown the red runs and headed at great speed towards a black run.  If it wasn't for Mrs Doak screaming like a banshee, he would have skied his way into A&E!
The group celebrated 2 birthdays - Stefany (14) and Joanna (18).  Both were treated to cake and candles.  Joanna was suitably decorated including large badges and tiara.  
On our return to the hotel we were greeted with the welcome sight of 'our driver' - oh happy days! 
Mr Patterson has finally found something that he's good at on the slopes.... Tonight we went bum boarding.  It's an activity where you climb up the slope with a bum shaped bit plastic and then head down the mountain at great speed on your bottom.  We all squealed with delight, including Mr Patterson - it's as close as he will come to a red run and has finally put his bottom to good use! 
Last day skiing tomorrow - bring it on.......

Date Posted: Friday 17th February,2012 9:11 pm

Day 5

Snow condition:  perfect

Weather:  cloudy and cold (-8)
Tears:  2
Major injury:  0 
Fun factor:  10/10
Today was much colder than previous days and this made skiing a little more difficult, but this didn't deter us.  Apart from a small group, we were all on the mountain.  The small group stayed on the nursery slope to build their confidence (quick access to the cafe, more like) and by the end of the day, they were much more happier about strapping two planks to their devices of torture known as ski boots and then negotiating the slippery slope!  Even Mr Patterson accomplished the snow plough (well, that was after he managed to muster enough momentum to move!).  Next was stopping and he did that too without using his behind as a break - he may even venture onto the ski lift tomorrow, but we're not holding our breath!
Those who felt that they were going too slow yesterday were much happier with the pace of things today.  In fact, all girls are feeling quite at home on the slopes and are getting into the routine of the day, much to the relief of the teachers, who are feeling a little weary.
Tonight is a free night and the girls have boosted the Bulgarian economy by purchasing a heady cocktail of crisps, pop and chocolate.  
Currently we are experiencing blizzard conditions and fingers are too cold to type, but a duvet day sounds really appealing for tomorrow 

Date Posted: Thursday 16th February,2012 9:06 pm

Day 4

Day 4

Snow condition:  perfect,  deep and crisp and even

Weather:  sunny

Tears:  0

Major injury:  0 (phew, so far so good)

Fun factor:  10/10

Before we start on today's adventures, we have to mention the three girls who spent yesterday evening revising math and science.  Picture the scene.... Hotel lobby full of holiday makers and on one solitary table sits our girls in Ashfield sweatshirts elbows deep in past exam papers.  So congratulations to Chelsea Docherty, Eve Wilson and Megan Roberts.

Another glorious day, blue skies and not a breath of wind (despite the Bulgarian cuisine, with its  high bean content!).  Lilly Smith followed Mr Patterson's lead and exited the ski store on her behind.  Her instructor would have been mortified as she is often heard to say "snow plough, Lilly" (obviously in a Bulgarian accent).

Today, most of the group showed the mountain how Ashfield does skiing.  War paint on (not just make up and fake tan, but also pink cheek stripes), the beginner group ripped up the green runs, putting their skills into practice.  When asked how they liked being on the slopes, most said they loved it and can't wait until tomorrow.  If there was a complaint, it was that they kept getting held up by the slower groups (those pesky little children again!) and they wanted to go faster!  

Although the instructor felt that Rebecca Reynolds had sufficient skills to ski up the mountain, Rebecca let herself down by falling off of the ski lift.  The ski lift man showed no sympathy as he pushed her out of the way!

The intermediate group continued to practice their parallel turns.  Apparently step turns are no longer approved and the older skiers had to review their technique, where as the younger ones wanted to continue with their trusty snow plough (there was a sense of disappointment emanating from our instructor).  Not wanting to bring the school into disrepute, we worked extra hard and we were shortly forming a well oiled line of paraplough skiers (we still have some way to go!).

Then we come to Mr McLees, who deserves a paragraph of his own.  We had to remind him that skiing is best done on skis rather than his back, head, face or elbow (he's tried them all!).  Mrs McLees showed a considerable amount of patience, well she did for about 10 seconds, then she resulted to laughter and finally sarcasm (that tried and trusted teaching method!).

After lunch, we felt confident enough to attempt a few jumps and ramps - we quickly realised that perhaps we were a little fool hardy.  Hollie Smythe managed to fall with the grace that only a ballerina has, however Mrs Mullaney soon followed with the grace of a pigmy hippo!  

Mr Donaldson had his comeuppance when he tried to spray Mrs McLees And ended up falling over, oh how we laughed!  

Tonight was karaoke night.  After a little persuasion, a group of us got up and murdered Milkshake, followed a dodgy rendition of the Vengaboys and culminated in the destruction of YMCA.  However, Stefany Steele and Rebecca Evans, ft Mrs Mullaney totally nailed Proud Mary (if you believe that, you obviously don't know Mrs Mullaney's vocal capacity, but she did cut a few moves!).  Note to the Music dept... The following should enter the next talent contest.....  Naomi, Samantha, Emma, Chloe, Gemma, Deena, Alex - no excuses!  The sixth formers commissioned a local artist to draw them in a favourable light all for a grand total of £5 each.  Let's just say, he was no Van Gough and had a vivid imagination!  

Date Posted: Wednesday 15th February,2012 10:13 pm

Day 3

Snow condition:  perfect

Weather:  sunny

Tears:  0

Major injury:  0 (note the subtle difference)

Fun factor:  10/10

Today we woke up to glorious Sunshine and we were able to appreciate our surroundings.  Also, today was a special day for one particular young lady as she had been sent a valentine card (so sweet), she was suitably flattered and emotional (if you sent the card, you certainly earned yourself a good few brownie points - well done!!).

Some of the group found walking on the snow a bit difficult, especially Rebecca Evans and Shannon Boyde, who were both walking like Bambi on ice!  It seems that well worn gutties are not ideal for icey conditions!  

The beginners made a lot of progress and started putting in turns.  Stefany Steele found that she was rather attracted to trees and decided to give one a closer look!  As there was less standing around, we found that skiing might use a bit more energy than expected and those hot chocolates really do help.  Mr Patterson spent more time on his skis today, rather than snow ploughing with his buttocks!  

The intermediate group tackled some trickier slopes, concentrating on parallel skiing across the mountain.  The pace was much quicker than yesterday and there was far less tumbles except for Jessica, who was obviously trying to beat Mrs Mullaney's tumble total from yesterday.  Mr Donaldson also had a couple of falls, one of which was on the flat (apparently he was testing the purity of the snow )!  Marnie and Deena thought that skiing in opposite directions would be a good idea -  you can guess the resulting calamity.  Joanna felt confident to bet our instructor a bar of chocolate that her lift pass wasn't working, she was last seen in the shop purchasing a bar of Milka!

Mrs McClintock and Mr McLees broke away from the beginner group and ventured up the mountain under the guidance of Mrs Doak and Mrs McLees. Mr McLees was fairly confident with this skiing lark, so much so, that he cheerfully led the group down a red run instead of a blue run.  

After an exhausting day of skiing, we all gratefully piled into the coach.  Taking our seats, we relaxed, feeling relieved to have survived another day on the mountain.  "Take us home, driver and don't spare the horses", however we forgot to add "and avoid any big busses heading in the opposite direction!". Luckily, our observant driver happened to spot the oncoming bus before we actually collided, but it definitely elicited a few choice words - relaxing was no longer an option!

Tonight is a free evening, but we are looking forward to the karaoke tomorrow night. Mind you, it looks like Christie Jones has been auditioning for the rock group Kiss since we got here! Note,  Waterproof mascara is a must for the slopes.

Date Posted: Wednesday 15th February,2012 9:17 am

Day 2

Snow condition: brilliant

Weather:  snowy, cloudy

Tears:  0

Injury:  0

Fun rating:  10/10

The day began well as we all managed to make it to breakfast.   Most of us took advantage of the wide variety of food and those who didn't, regretted their poor choice as there were some rumbly tummies by 10 o'clock.

Once we were kitted out, we were split into groups depending upon ability (no mixed ability for ski school!).  The 2 beginner groups spent the day learning the art of snow ploughing, but before they did this, they learnt how to fall over and get up.  The latter was not as easy as the former and some even had to ask the ski instructor for assistance, naming no names, but his last name starts with P and ends in atterson!!

Although Faith Stanfield managed to master skiing, she found stopping a tad difficult.  At one point she careered past the group and was heading back towards the airport.  Luckily her progress was hindered by a number of other skiers and finally she was stopped by a strategically placed barrier.  She was later heard saying that she felt she was ready to hit the mountain and what she didn't know, she could pick up quite easily and how important is stopping anyway?  Andrea Boyd decided that conventional skiing was far too boring and thought that negotiating the mountain with her face was much more enjoyable!

All beginner girls gave it their best shot and made progress.  They are all awarded A for effort.

The intermediate group went straight up the mountain where visibility was pretty poor.  Some were a little shaky to start with, but soon picked it up again.  Before we knew it, we had dispensed with the snow plough and we were weaving our way through the slower skiers.  We mercilessly picked our turning points, spraying snow over the slow ones  in our wake, feeling far superior as we looked down upon the little children!  

During lunch, we were able to watch the competitors of the Europa Championship crossing the finishing line.  Deena Cunningham felt that she had reached pro standard and was chomping at the bit to enter the competition.  It took two teachers and a ski instructor to hold her back.

We all made it back safely to welcome hot chocolate!

Mr Walker should be pleased to hear that we have been testing the girls' math skills as we went 10 pin bowling which lacked the technology of the Ice Bowl.  There were frantic counting of the fingers to add up the final scores!

Date Posted: Tuesday 14th February,2012 9:26 am

Day 1

It's 5.45am on Sunday and Belfast International Airport was hit by a plague of purple cladded Ashfieldonians eagerly pulling an assortment of suitcases.  So far, so good as we have all arrived and have managed to negotiate check-in and security without any dramas.  The purple plague then hit any establishment that would feed us.  Suitably refreshed, we headed for the gate where we were boarded first - hoorah!  iPods, sweets and books out, we are ready for take off.  Unfortunately we were overweight and the plane couldn't take off.  Who can we get rid of?  After a lengthy discussion and a suggestion of dispatching hair straighteners and make up, we decided that was a step too far, so we elected to get rid of the on flight catering!

After a smooth flight that we were thrilled to see the snow as we landed.  On board the bus we were treated to a panorama of glistening trees as we weaved our way up to the resort.  All was well until we encountered 3 kamikaze dogs wandering across the road, our driver obviously is not a member of the RSPCA and would have gladly ploughed through them.  If it wasn't for the squeals from the front passengers, the driver would have had himself a new furry bumper.  If that wasn't enough, the bus didn't seem to like the nasty, big hill and we were told the bus did not want to go so we pulled over.  15 minutes of banging, the driver got a bottle of dodgy liquid that seemed to do the trick and we were off!!

Finally we arrived at the hotel.  Now we have been fed and instructed, we are ready for bed.  We are looking forward to tomorrow and no doubt we will have many more tales to tell....

Date Posted: Sunday 12th February,2012 7:52 pm