Godaften,

As this is my first post, I should introduce myself. My name is Mikaela Love, and I am a socially awkward 15 year old from Australia . For the next 12 months I will be living in Denmark, a country I have never been too although have heard only great things about. I have a mother, father, younger brother, younger sister, a dog (whom I love) and a bird (whom I am still learning to like), and we live together in the suburbs of Sydney. I go to an all girls Catholic school, and thoroughly enjoy my time there. After my last day at school, I have been back at least 5 times, hence I am often called a nerd. I don’t mind this nickname, it only receives negative connotations from American teen movies. I spend the majority of my spare time reading, watching Netflix or playing tennis. One would say I am not the most outgoing or social type, but maybe exchange will change this.

I want to become an Archaeologist when I leave school, I have since I was little. I love history and often wish I was living in another time. I wouldn’t call Indiana Jones my role model, although I do believe he has the perfect life, however unrealistic it may be.

I would like to express my gratitude towards the Rotary Club of West Pennant Hills/Cherrybrook and District 9685, as they have sponsored me for this adventure. As well as District 1470 in Denmark who are allowing me to become part of their community for a year.

As you would have read above, I am Australian and have become accustomed to warm weather. In 20°C weather, I am cold. Today it is 38°C and it is expected to be 42°C tomorrow. Denmark is currently around 0 degrees, so as part of my preparations I have tried to mentally prepare for this large shift in climate, although it still amazes me.

In 14 days, I will begin a new life. I do not know if I am ready, but I know it will be phenomenal.

Venlig helson,

Mikaela