Well well....My time in Iceland rapidly made it to the final four days. I have lots to do, way to much to do actually, before I head home to the God all Might United States! O how I miss America! o dear. Time to come home, eat some Chipotle and Red Robbin! Yummy. Hoping to get Toni's little brother to get us Red Robbin as we get off the plane then stopping at Chipotle on the way home. haha! We shall see...But I have to update you on the rest of the Poland Trip.
I think I left off with our really cool game against the senior national team. That was an incredible day. Very fun. Tuesday I do believe. Then on Wed we traveled in the morning time to a city called Szczyrk where one of the four Olympic Training Centers in Poland is located. We took the bus there and it was about an hour and half drive or so I would guess. I hadn't been feeling to well the night before and I think I had a fever throughout the night. So on the bus I got really sick and pretty sure my fever picked up again. I haven't been sick in a long time, forgot how sucky it is. Anyway, we made it to this little "mountain" town with a small ski resort somewhere I think. (mountains about the size of mnt herman-not too big)We got our rooms put together, I got an awesome room with Molly and Kate. Both incredibly awesome girls. Love em to death. We had a practice in the afternoon right in the complex at the gym there. Really nice gym. Practice went well dispute me being sick. On Thursday we had two practices. At breakfast coach Marco and Dan Bush (trainer)suggested that I didn't practice and got healthy. So I had even intention on listening to them, however I rested up some after breakfast and felt that running around wouldn't do any harm. If anything it would just be good for me. So I went with everyone to practice and felt I actually did quite well. Then afternoon practice was a different story though. O well, guess you can't be on your game alll the time. I started to get really excited for Friday afternoon. The morning slowly came after a rough rough night. Not sleeping much because of a cough and a fever is not fun. Light 1 hr morning practice then game in the afternoon. We rode a bus just 15 min to a gym in town with the junior Norway team to compete against them. They are world champions... so basically the worst team in the world had to play the best team in the world... guess how that one turned out!? haha. Nei joke. It wasn't that bad... We held our own pretty nicely actually the first little bit. But they played a 4 2 defense and the girls that played most have never played against that. So that was a total disaster. Just about every goal they scored was off of a fast break. I played a few min in the first half and about 13 or 14 min in the second half. The last few min of the game we had two girls get a 2 min. That means we play down a man for 2 min. So I was one of the lucky 4 that got to play the ending of a game against the best team in the world 4vs6.... Lucky eh? But before they fouled out we did get 4 goals in. The final score was something like 11-48 or something. Pretty high score for handball. But we learned a lot and that is exactly why USA went. Saturday I started to feel a little better by morning. Rough night again, hate that. We had our last practice of the tournament, another short one in morning. Around 4 we played Czech Republic junior national team. That game actually turned out to be a little bit closer until second half. We played at the gym in town again. This actually was an upsetting day for me. I was looking forward so much to play Czech because my grandpa is Czech and so just playing our heritage was a cool idea to me. So I was really ready and excited, and turns out I am the only player that didn't get a chance to play. Anca thinks that Marco may have just forgot about me, guess we will never know that truth. I spoke with him later that night about it and he said that jugs sometimes games just don't go your way. He mentioned that Sunday's game would be a great game for the players who didn get to play much this week play a lot. So I was looking forward to that. Then on Sunday we just had an early game against Poland Junior National team. It was held just in the gym at the OTC that we had been staying at. The game started off with the starters and we were doing really well. Half time score was only 7-16 or something like that. It was a close game that we kept ourselves in. Our goals Toni and Sophie did bomb that game!!! So I was expecting to play second half because that is what Marco said he was going to do, that didn't happen. He kept the Europeans in for most of it. With 15 min left the bench finally got to go in. And just my luck, my shin splints would not go away. They were bothering me all week but the pain would escape my mind once I started playing. But this game was really bad for some reason. My vertical was maybe 2 inches, they were so painful. So I pulled myself off after about 7 min or so. I let them get so bad I couldn't straighten my feet. Not goood. I'm used to playing on nice soft grass, not hard courts. So the last two games did no go well for me. However, USA improved dramatically each game. It was really fun to be a part of and watch and see and cheer on. Each game got rougher and rougher.
I learned a lot in the 9 days I was in Poland. Learned even more about handball, as always, but beyond the sport, I learned a lot about myself. I went through some pretty intense emotions while I was there. First off, I was wearing a USA jersey. Now tell me that doesn't just rock your world in itself. Hearing the anthem play after your name was called before each game was just a feeling I will never be able to explain to you. Truly indescribable. Then coming together as a team before each game, wishing another country (not just team but country) good luck and then doing a USA cheer was awesome too. Really cool. So playing with those emotions was a task in itself. Then I feel like I showed a lot of character playing through the swine flu. I am pretty positive that is what I have been fight because its been in my house in Iceland for about 2 weeks now. I was bound to get it, I think that just traveling and lots of activity over did it and I finally caved in. Perfect timing eh? I learned a lot about mind games. If you let your thoughts win and take you over, there is no hope. But when you stay strong and focused, you're golden. I had to really focus down on that with my confidence this week. I do not feel like the coaches were able to see my full capability of handball because of various reasoning's. Didn't play in my position I have been training in for 3 months, was sick, and had shin splints. All lame factors, but alive and real to me. And because some of those things came into action when I didn't get to play in the only game that was personal to me, it crushed me. I had go dig deep and remember what I was doing in Poland. Had to remember that I wasn't there for my own glory and satisfaction. Had to remember that God brought me to Poland to glorify him and to serve him. I wore a USA on my jersey representing Him, not me, not even USA, but God. I was broken down to an altime sports low that would have been extremely hard to pull myself out of. Thinking it was merely impossible actually. Then Saturday night I got to the hotel; been holding back tears for about 2 hours now. Tears of anger, embarrassment, and frustration. Then I got an email. An email from mommy that God had perfect timing on. Mom's always know best and know when their baby's need the extra boost. She sent everything I needed to hear. And I couldn't hold my tears in any longer, but they weren't tears of those bad and hurtful feelings I was feeling.They were tears of pure joy and satisfaction. God is good. Tha is all I could say. God is good. He is so real, and is so powerful. He comes through to us when we need him most, we when think nothing else is important and we have a confidence radar at zero, God shows up in the weirdest yet most apparent ways. Its impossible for me to not believe in this Almighty God. He works in ways that I cannot descibe. He is incredible. He built up my confidence in a matter of minutes. Something that probably would have taken a long time, if ever at all. I was shown that no matter what happens, what is said, or how things turn out God is always the one in the end that matters. And he is the one that all the glory goes to, all the joy goes to, and all the satisfaction goes to. People, coaches, teammates, fans, referees may/will crush you and break you down, but that is when you have to let all those words and actions brush off you shoulders and at the end of the day lift them all up to God. We have to dig deep within ourselves to find the true meanings of htings. Whether its a love of a game, or a friendship, or a desire, want, wish. Whatever it may be, with God's help, the search and execution is only possible with God. He is good.
I have 4 more days here. 4 days that I have filled to the max with getting friends, shopping, dinners, practices, and last minute adventures in before I head home. It is going to be busy, hectic, and memorable. I cannot wait! I will write one last time just before I head home... Pray for safety, fun, and excitement for my last few days in Iceland! Thanks. love an dmiss you all! xoxo-hollinator!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Poland Baby!!
This is a day late because the internet is off and on here... but this is from last night.
So, I have a few weeks to update you on. I think I will keep it short though.
Handball has been great. We flew to Akyerir. Not sure if I mentioned that a while ago or not. Think I did. It was fun. We went with no parents on a little 9 row propeller plane. 45 min flight through the “mountains” of Iceland. The flight was fun because we were level with the mountain tops the whole time. Flew next to a Glacier. Ya, that was cool. Then played against KA. We were tied 10 to 10 at half time. Came back really strong and then got ahead by 3 points with 5 min left. Ended up losing 20-22 because the last min and a half they got 3 brake aways and caught back up with us, and in the end defeated us. Coach Aegir was not a happy camper… Even though I couldn’t understand him, I knew he was not happy. Got back home around 6 o’clock and had dinner with Grandma and Grandpa. Then not really sure what else I have been up to in regards to handball. Just practices mostly. I only got one more game in before I left the other day for Poland. So that was sort of a bummer. But lots of practices and hanging out before and after with the team. I love the girls so much! A lot of fun. I also have been doing separate work outs in the mornings at the gym. Just cardio and light lifting on my own. There is a guy that is ALWAYS there who hangs with me for a little bit. I swear he lifts like 5 times a day everyday! It’s crazy… But mostly just training and watching and learning for handball. It’s all good.
I have been doing tons of stuff… Meeting a lot of really cool people through Glaetan and Toni and my club and the bus. It’s just really fun to meet new people then exchange “facebook” info and meet up. As much as I sometimes hate facebook, it really has become such a powerful resource. Meet and Indian man named George who owns a restaurant named Indian Mango. He invited Toni, Petra, and I for a dinner on the house one Monday night. That was incredible. I got like a 50$ dinner and he was soo happy to have us there and buy it for us. It was awesome. Really genuine and joyful dude. I also have been tagging along with Toni at a Christian café called Glaetan. The people that live in the loft above are Katie and Erik. Totally awesome and amazing people. In their 30’s and have such an incredible testimony. Ask and I’d love to share some if it sometime. But Erik and I’s sense of humor is identical so its great to hang with him. And Eyore we call him and Petra and Guca. Just lots of fun awesome people at the café. Jason is this guy from south Africa, “man”. (He is always saying “man” after everything) “Ya you know that’s really cool, man.) I love it! But he and I have the same bus stop so we are always getting on and off together. He is cool because he is always asking questions and I can just tell that he really enjoys learning about new things. That’s awesome. Then there also my “regular” friends. Stebbi, Steinar, Halli, Beta, Elsa, Viktoria, Gudron, Svanquete, just whoever. Love hanging with them. O!! I met a guy names Bjorn. He is really cool. He took me out one night and had climbing rope and harnesses and we went climbing on this tower thing. Then walked around in the biggest “forest” in Reykjavik (which took like maybe 40 min) not big at all. Then drove around a bunch and just toured the city of all the places I haven’t been and talked a ton. We left at 8 oclock and got home at about 1 am. We went to an aluminum factor where he works every summer. The 3 buildings are 1 kilometer long. They are huge! We parked for like 20 min and looked over the harbor and across Hofnarfjordur. Drove 10 min outside the city limits to see if the northern lights were out… they weren’t. Um…o! we drove to the presidents house. OK this is crazy. So there weren’t any gates or anything like that. So we drove literally right up to the house. And we could have parked in his garage. I mean I couldn’t believe it. I asked if we were allowed to do this, he said, “Ya! We can knock on the door for a cup of tea if we wanted to.” It blew me away. Anyway, that was a fun night. My handball team got me tickets to go to a rock festival with them one night. Really fun. Just lots of music and dancing with my team. Good times. IDK, I have been really busy. O ya, Toni met some people on the bus a few weeks ago and one Friday they called and invited her for dinner and a bible study. I was with her so we both went. They are really awesome people. Kolbi and Annie. They have two daughters Darcy and Haley. They are here in Iceland form the states for 2 years so far just serving the Lord. They hang out at the university and just invite students to come for dinner and the bible study and stuff. So we went and had a lovely lamb dinner then an awesome bible study after. There were 3 other college girls there. One from the states and 2 from China. It was really cool. Awesome bible study on 1 Peter too.
Last weekend Halli took Toni and I out west. Not exactly sure all the places we went. But saw a glacier. We couldn’t go onto it because one the daylight is extremely limited by now, (11am – 330pm daylight) and two the road to the base was in no condition to drive to it. Saw the black sand beach. That was really really cool. I wish we could have stayed at some of the places longer, but we had a time crunch because of the daylight. We also went to these cliffs… wow those were incredible. I must say that after that experience, I have not been to a cliff before that. I mean it was an actual CLIFF. Not any steep hill or slight drop off to 20 feet. No! This thing was a cliff over the ocean. Into straight DEATH! Haha! I liked it… yes mom… I did dangle my feet over it. And I laid down and put my head over it to look down, but I am still alive so it was totally worth it. There is so much more to tell… I don’t want to tell it all over stupid text online. So I guess that when I get home (which is extremely soon) you will all just have to join me for a long storytime session or just ask questions all the time!
The Present…
So I am currently in Poland actually… With the USA Junior National Team. The journey started, for me, on Saturday night. Toni slept over because we had to leave for the airport at 5am. So we went outside to do something and the northern lights were out. So we took the car and drove just outside city limits (only 10 min drive or so) to them better. It was so incredible. We saw this line in the sky and just knew it was the northern lights “warming up”. Then after about 15 min these green, yellow, and purple-blue lights started appearing and forming and stuff. It was truly indescribable. I couldn’t capture them on camera, but will never forget how they look. It was awesome. That was at about midnight. So we finally slept at 130 or so. Then the airport and flying and everything went well. Flew into Frankford, Germany airport. Had to get our bags and check back in with Lot Polish Airlines. That was a job in itself to find the check-in booth. That airport is crazy big! We sort of got ourselves in a maze/moosh pit trying to find it. There was a huge Arabian plane or something going and got totally intermingled and mixed with a bunch of Arabians that didn’t know English. Uh, that was a mess. But finally got to the gate and sat at this tv bar thing. Talked with the worker who was a 20 yr old German boy. Very nice to us. Knew we were Americans right away (Toni and I, could tell something different about Morgan) We were asking about the internet connection because he wanted to add us on facebook. So I tried with my laptop and couldn’t get it. So he said just come back here and use ours. I was like uh wont you get in trouble, he assured me that someone does it all the time and it’s fine. So of course right as I log in another employee that I guess treats everyone like he is the boss yelled at him. I felt so bad. But hey, I was just following what they told me! Woops. O well. And I guess it didn’t get Marcel in trouble, just miss communication or something. No big deal but it was funny. Then Steph, Anca, Marco, and Dan Bush come to the gate at about 13 o’clock or so. That was sooo nice to see some familiar faces. It’s been 3 months! So I like that. We played some foursquare and all that fun stuff. Some Portuguese people made a bet on me that I could juggle 15 times with the handball. So the dude asked if I could for him so he could win the bet… I got pretty nervous (nei joke) but I did it! Buuya! Then I talked with them and they were coming to Poland also for 2 weeks work. So they said they might stop by and watch us play or something. That could be cool I guess! Then last night we made it to the bus with the team and to the hotel just fine. I’m rooming with Toni…. haha! Got some USA warm-ups last night. That is still crazy for me. But get this. So practice this morning at 10 and we got to the gym and there was this huge sign and millions of posters. They were advertising our game against the Poland SENIOR National team tomorrow… Wow. This is the top, highest, best of the best in Poland. They are number one in all of Poland. The senior national team, meaning Olympic team. That’s crazy I am even in the same room as them let alone on the same court. Ugh it is blowing my mind. And never EVER have I had that much advertisement for anything that I have been a part of. I found out that the stadium is already sold out and it is getting broadcasted on live Polish television. Wow… I didn’t think I signed up for this. And it’s for the game tomorrow… which isn’t even part of the tournament that we are here for. It’s supposed to just be a friendly to help us out. But it’s a big deal here. The team is staying in our hotel… man they are some big girls. I mean big girls. We have a freakin 14 year old on our team. This is not ok!! Haha. But o well, hey it’s totally worth the experience and how else are we supposed to get better? It will be great. The facility is awesome! Really cool. It is like some of the gym’s in Iceland. Just different seating, but same deal. At our practice there were two younger teams that came just to watch us practice… I am still, even after Iceland, shocked at how much of an influence the states are. It’s a cool feeling to be a part of it. The afternoon practice went really well. Then had dinner and I just got out of a meeting with the team. The oldest on the team Jen is really awesome and felt that we needed to do a quick chalk talk. So we went through just basic defense and offense for those who haven’t been playing in clubs and in Europe. There is a huge gap in the players, but we are adapting. I think right now I am backup center back. Which I am more than happy with. I went in expecting nothing and going to be greatful and humble if I receive anything. So, can’t wait for tomorrow. We have a morning training then the game is at 4 o’clock! O dear…. Wish us good luck. It’s the first time in many many years (over 15 or 20) that USA and Poland played each other. And first time USA has played on Poland’s home court. So, making some history here! It’s the first event since the USA and Poland Handball Federations have made peace and agreement, so we have to show lots of respect and just learn from them! I can’t wait to hear the national anthem while standing on the court in a USA jersey… wow. This is really happening. God is good.
Miss and love you guys sooo much. I leave Poland the 23rd for Iceland. Then leave Iceland the 27th for home!! Can’t wait! Miss you guys soo much. Thanks for the support. And maybe check out the Polish television broadcast on line or something tomorrow. May get some of the game or something not sure! Xoxoxo.
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all of ^ That info was from yesterday. So today... we had a practice at 10 o'clock. That went really well. There is so much to learn and so little time. Then back to the hotel for lunch and then nap or school or what ever the girls needed to do. I worked on some school. Got a lot done actually. Then....we got ready for our game at about 330. Went for a light walk and stuff. The Polish team is in the same hotel as us so we ran into them in the lobby, ended up taking a picture with them. That was awkward but really cool. Then we rode to the gym with them on the same bus and got together in the locker room with USA. That is were it really hit me... hit me that I was just about to step on the court to play for my country. For USA team handball. So incredible. I was just blow away. I man who am I to be playing at htis level? I am only 17 for crying out loud. But the gym was about half full when we started warm up. By game time, it was packed! The game was sold out! It was filmed on live Polish television. Cameras everywhere. Radio. Fans. Noise. Loud. Crazy. Before teh game stared we did the whole introduction thing... We walked out in a line and did individual introductions. That was really a feeling that I will never be able to express. Just hearing my name and number (19!) was realy cool. Then stepping out and waving to both sides. Man it was really really cool. Then we shuck hands with the Polish, exchanges gifts (stickers and pins) then we were off. We did pretty well the first little bit. Held our own for the first 10 min or so with only like 10-4 maybe. Then... as time went on we got dominated. Never ever gave up though. On the bus ride home we talked with them and they were so impressed on how hard we played all the way through. That is going to be our strongest part. And the fact that they are all pretty much over 21 or something and we are almost all under 21 is pretty cool. We didnt do too bad. I played about 15 min first half. But as right wing, that was a surprise. Got 3 shots off, didnt score! haha. but im learning. Then second half i played maybe 10 min, but as centerback. did alright, its hard to play wiht less experienced players. I am hoping I will get some time with some of the european girls in the tournament this weekend. I talked to Marco about htat, think the tournament will be better. Its hard for me to play with some of the girls now because I amsu used to playing at a high level in Iceland, that going down to a lower level is proving to be really hard. But, then again, I gotta work with what I have and make no excuses. Eh, it will be fine. Marco said that this game was just a learning thing for not only us, but for him as well. He played everyone. Wanted to see how we all played in different posistions and stuff. I think that the tournament will be a great place to prove what I really have learned. He said I will have plenty of chances to prove that.
Tomorrow we are traveling to the Polish Olympic Training Center to stay there for the remainder of the time. Not sure how long the bus ride is, but I think it will be fun! I will do my best to keep everyone updated. Check the blog when you can.
xoxoxo Holliday. #19 USA Team Handball.... <-- crazy huh?
So, I have a few weeks to update you on. I think I will keep it short though.
Handball has been great. We flew to Akyerir. Not sure if I mentioned that a while ago or not. Think I did. It was fun. We went with no parents on a little 9 row propeller plane. 45 min flight through the “mountains” of Iceland. The flight was fun because we were level with the mountain tops the whole time. Flew next to a Glacier. Ya, that was cool. Then played against KA. We were tied 10 to 10 at half time. Came back really strong and then got ahead by 3 points with 5 min left. Ended up losing 20-22 because the last min and a half they got 3 brake aways and caught back up with us, and in the end defeated us. Coach Aegir was not a happy camper… Even though I couldn’t understand him, I knew he was not happy. Got back home around 6 o’clock and had dinner with Grandma and Grandpa. Then not really sure what else I have been up to in regards to handball. Just practices mostly. I only got one more game in before I left the other day for Poland. So that was sort of a bummer. But lots of practices and hanging out before and after with the team. I love the girls so much! A lot of fun. I also have been doing separate work outs in the mornings at the gym. Just cardio and light lifting on my own. There is a guy that is ALWAYS there who hangs with me for a little bit. I swear he lifts like 5 times a day everyday! It’s crazy… But mostly just training and watching and learning for handball. It’s all good.
I have been doing tons of stuff… Meeting a lot of really cool people through Glaetan and Toni and my club and the bus. It’s just really fun to meet new people then exchange “facebook” info and meet up. As much as I sometimes hate facebook, it really has become such a powerful resource. Meet and Indian man named George who owns a restaurant named Indian Mango. He invited Toni, Petra, and I for a dinner on the house one Monday night. That was incredible. I got like a 50$ dinner and he was soo happy to have us there and buy it for us. It was awesome. Really genuine and joyful dude. I also have been tagging along with Toni at a Christian café called Glaetan. The people that live in the loft above are Katie and Erik. Totally awesome and amazing people. In their 30’s and have such an incredible testimony. Ask and I’d love to share some if it sometime. But Erik and I’s sense of humor is identical so its great to hang with him. And Eyore we call him and Petra and Guca. Just lots of fun awesome people at the café. Jason is this guy from south Africa, “man”. (He is always saying “man” after everything) “Ya you know that’s really cool, man.) I love it! But he and I have the same bus stop so we are always getting on and off together. He is cool because he is always asking questions and I can just tell that he really enjoys learning about new things. That’s awesome. Then there also my “regular” friends. Stebbi, Steinar, Halli, Beta, Elsa, Viktoria, Gudron, Svanquete, just whoever. Love hanging with them. O!! I met a guy names Bjorn. He is really cool. He took me out one night and had climbing rope and harnesses and we went climbing on this tower thing. Then walked around in the biggest “forest” in Reykjavik (which took like maybe 40 min) not big at all. Then drove around a bunch and just toured the city of all the places I haven’t been and talked a ton. We left at 8 oclock and got home at about 1 am. We went to an aluminum factor where he works every summer. The 3 buildings are 1 kilometer long. They are huge! We parked for like 20 min and looked over the harbor and across Hofnarfjordur. Drove 10 min outside the city limits to see if the northern lights were out… they weren’t. Um…o! we drove to the presidents house. OK this is crazy. So there weren’t any gates or anything like that. So we drove literally right up to the house. And we could have parked in his garage. I mean I couldn’t believe it. I asked if we were allowed to do this, he said, “Ya! We can knock on the door for a cup of tea if we wanted to.” It blew me away. Anyway, that was a fun night. My handball team got me tickets to go to a rock festival with them one night. Really fun. Just lots of music and dancing with my team. Good times. IDK, I have been really busy. O ya, Toni met some people on the bus a few weeks ago and one Friday they called and invited her for dinner and a bible study. I was with her so we both went. They are really awesome people. Kolbi and Annie. They have two daughters Darcy and Haley. They are here in Iceland form the states for 2 years so far just serving the Lord. They hang out at the university and just invite students to come for dinner and the bible study and stuff. So we went and had a lovely lamb dinner then an awesome bible study after. There were 3 other college girls there. One from the states and 2 from China. It was really cool. Awesome bible study on 1 Peter too.
Last weekend Halli took Toni and I out west. Not exactly sure all the places we went. But saw a glacier. We couldn’t go onto it because one the daylight is extremely limited by now, (11am – 330pm daylight) and two the road to the base was in no condition to drive to it. Saw the black sand beach. That was really really cool. I wish we could have stayed at some of the places longer, but we had a time crunch because of the daylight. We also went to these cliffs… wow those were incredible. I must say that after that experience, I have not been to a cliff before that. I mean it was an actual CLIFF. Not any steep hill or slight drop off to 20 feet. No! This thing was a cliff over the ocean. Into straight DEATH! Haha! I liked it… yes mom… I did dangle my feet over it. And I laid down and put my head over it to look down, but I am still alive so it was totally worth it. There is so much more to tell… I don’t want to tell it all over stupid text online. So I guess that when I get home (which is extremely soon) you will all just have to join me for a long storytime session or just ask questions all the time!
The Present…
So I am currently in Poland actually… With the USA Junior National Team. The journey started, for me, on Saturday night. Toni slept over because we had to leave for the airport at 5am. So we went outside to do something and the northern lights were out. So we took the car and drove just outside city limits (only 10 min drive or so) to them better. It was so incredible. We saw this line in the sky and just knew it was the northern lights “warming up”. Then after about 15 min these green, yellow, and purple-blue lights started appearing and forming and stuff. It was truly indescribable. I couldn’t capture them on camera, but will never forget how they look. It was awesome. That was at about midnight. So we finally slept at 130 or so. Then the airport and flying and everything went well. Flew into Frankford, Germany airport. Had to get our bags and check back in with Lot Polish Airlines. That was a job in itself to find the check-in booth. That airport is crazy big! We sort of got ourselves in a maze/moosh pit trying to find it. There was a huge Arabian plane or something going and got totally intermingled and mixed with a bunch of Arabians that didn’t know English. Uh, that was a mess. But finally got to the gate and sat at this tv bar thing. Talked with the worker who was a 20 yr old German boy. Very nice to us. Knew we were Americans right away (Toni and I, could tell something different about Morgan) We were asking about the internet connection because he wanted to add us on facebook. So I tried with my laptop and couldn’t get it. So he said just come back here and use ours. I was like uh wont you get in trouble, he assured me that someone does it all the time and it’s fine. So of course right as I log in another employee that I guess treats everyone like he is the boss yelled at him. I felt so bad. But hey, I was just following what they told me! Woops. O well. And I guess it didn’t get Marcel in trouble, just miss communication or something. No big deal but it was funny. Then Steph, Anca, Marco, and Dan Bush come to the gate at about 13 o’clock or so. That was sooo nice to see some familiar faces. It’s been 3 months! So I like that. We played some foursquare and all that fun stuff. Some Portuguese people made a bet on me that I could juggle 15 times with the handball. So the dude asked if I could for him so he could win the bet… I got pretty nervous (nei joke) but I did it! Buuya! Then I talked with them and they were coming to Poland also for 2 weeks work. So they said they might stop by and watch us play or something. That could be cool I guess! Then last night we made it to the bus with the team and to the hotel just fine. I’m rooming with Toni…. haha! Got some USA warm-ups last night. That is still crazy for me. But get this. So practice this morning at 10 and we got to the gym and there was this huge sign and millions of posters. They were advertising our game against the Poland SENIOR National team tomorrow… Wow. This is the top, highest, best of the best in Poland. They are number one in all of Poland. The senior national team, meaning Olympic team. That’s crazy I am even in the same room as them let alone on the same court. Ugh it is blowing my mind. And never EVER have I had that much advertisement for anything that I have been a part of. I found out that the stadium is already sold out and it is getting broadcasted on live Polish television. Wow… I didn’t think I signed up for this. And it’s for the game tomorrow… which isn’t even part of the tournament that we are here for. It’s supposed to just be a friendly to help us out. But it’s a big deal here. The team is staying in our hotel… man they are some big girls. I mean big girls. We have a freakin 14 year old on our team. This is not ok!! Haha. But o well, hey it’s totally worth the experience and how else are we supposed to get better? It will be great. The facility is awesome! Really cool. It is like some of the gym’s in Iceland. Just different seating, but same deal. At our practice there were two younger teams that came just to watch us practice… I am still, even after Iceland, shocked at how much of an influence the states are. It’s a cool feeling to be a part of it. The afternoon practice went really well. Then had dinner and I just got out of a meeting with the team. The oldest on the team Jen is really awesome and felt that we needed to do a quick chalk talk. So we went through just basic defense and offense for those who haven’t been playing in clubs and in Europe. There is a huge gap in the players, but we are adapting. I think right now I am backup center back. Which I am more than happy with. I went in expecting nothing and going to be greatful and humble if I receive anything. So, can’t wait for tomorrow. We have a morning training then the game is at 4 o’clock! O dear…. Wish us good luck. It’s the first time in many many years (over 15 or 20) that USA and Poland played each other. And first time USA has played on Poland’s home court. So, making some history here! It’s the first event since the USA and Poland Handball Federations have made peace and agreement, so we have to show lots of respect and just learn from them! I can’t wait to hear the national anthem while standing on the court in a USA jersey… wow. This is really happening. God is good.
Miss and love you guys sooo much. I leave Poland the 23rd for Iceland. Then leave Iceland the 27th for home!! Can’t wait! Miss you guys soo much. Thanks for the support. And maybe check out the Polish television broadcast on line or something tomorrow. May get some of the game or something not sure! Xoxoxo.
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all of ^ That info was from yesterday. So today... we had a practice at 10 o'clock. That went really well. There is so much to learn and so little time. Then back to the hotel for lunch and then nap or school or what ever the girls needed to do. I worked on some school. Got a lot done actually. Then....we got ready for our game at about 330. Went for a light walk and stuff. The Polish team is in the same hotel as us so we ran into them in the lobby, ended up taking a picture with them. That was awkward but really cool. Then we rode to the gym with them on the same bus and got together in the locker room with USA. That is were it really hit me... hit me that I was just about to step on the court to play for my country. For USA team handball. So incredible. I was just blow away. I man who am I to be playing at htis level? I am only 17 for crying out loud. But the gym was about half full when we started warm up. By game time, it was packed! The game was sold out! It was filmed on live Polish television. Cameras everywhere. Radio. Fans. Noise. Loud. Crazy. Before teh game stared we did the whole introduction thing... We walked out in a line and did individual introductions. That was really a feeling that I will never be able to express. Just hearing my name and number (19!) was realy cool. Then stepping out and waving to both sides. Man it was really really cool. Then we shuck hands with the Polish, exchanges gifts (stickers and pins) then we were off. We did pretty well the first little bit. Held our own for the first 10 min or so with only like 10-4 maybe. Then... as time went on we got dominated. Never ever gave up though. On the bus ride home we talked with them and they were so impressed on how hard we played all the way through. That is going to be our strongest part. And the fact that they are all pretty much over 21 or something and we are almost all under 21 is pretty cool. We didnt do too bad. I played about 15 min first half. But as right wing, that was a surprise. Got 3 shots off, didnt score! haha. but im learning. Then second half i played maybe 10 min, but as centerback. did alright, its hard to play wiht less experienced players. I am hoping I will get some time with some of the european girls in the tournament this weekend. I talked to Marco about htat, think the tournament will be better. Its hard for me to play with some of the girls now because I amsu used to playing at a high level in Iceland, that going down to a lower level is proving to be really hard. But, then again, I gotta work with what I have and make no excuses. Eh, it will be fine. Marco said that this game was just a learning thing for not only us, but for him as well. He played everyone. Wanted to see how we all played in different posistions and stuff. I think that the tournament will be a great place to prove what I really have learned. He said I will have plenty of chances to prove that.
Tomorrow we are traveling to the Polish Olympic Training Center to stay there for the remainder of the time. Not sure how long the bus ride is, but I think it will be fun! I will do my best to keep everyone updated. Check the blog when you can.
xoxoxo Holliday. #19 USA Team Handball.... <-- crazy huh?
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Time is Getting Short
Hey gang!! Well, have lots of stories, info, memories, and all of that jazz. But I have a lot of schooling to do today, so I may need to keep it short and sweet.
Handball-
It has been way awesome. Last week I just had normal practices that have been beneficial like always. Getting great technique and movement and drills and skills in. The whole shabang! We have been focusing mainly on a few plays that we are trying to get down to the science. Lots of crosses and fakes involved. Its really fun. My favorite thing in handball is when we pull a sweet play with lots of crossing and confuse the D like crazy and then find a wide open gap and get a totally free beautiful goal! That's what its all about. My coach is proving yet again to just be soo awesome! He talks with me after practices about things I'm doing well and things I can work on. A very awesome guy and full of encouragement. Rad dude - as we say it in Mo-town, CO!! We talked about doing a few extra sessions, but he and his wife just had a little baby girl about 2 and a half weeks ago, so he has is hands tied up at home. Understandable. ;) But that's ok, I still feel like I am gaining so much. Friday night was really fun with my team. Four of us went to Victoria's house and hung out for a bit. Just hanging with girls was fun, haven't done that in some time. Then her dad, who is awesome btw, made us a very nice dinner. Mexican food... so good! Her little brother is the cutest thing ever to. He can understand English, just not speak it. So he walked into the room with this crazy stare at me and asked me some question in Icelandic, I couldn't understand. Then he whispered to his sister, "Does the brown girl only speak English?" HAHAHA brown girl!!! It was really funny and one of the cutest things a four yr old has ever said I think. But then got in the hot tub (pottur) and chillaxed. After Saturday's practice a 4 girls met up at Haukup (the "walmart" of Iceland even though its not even close) in search of pumpkin carving. I somehow convinced a few girls to attempt to celebrate Halloween with me. But after our disastrous failure to find pumpkins anywhere, we went to my house and watched scary movies. Fun Fun day with the girls. Then on Sunday, we flew to Aeykiry (I think its called) to play a game. It is the second largest city in Iceland located about 6 hr drive north. The flight was only 45 min. It was really weird because we flew from Reyk airport, and there was absolutely NO security. I mean nothing. No metal detectors, anything. I am surprised they even checked our boarding passes, there was nothing! It blew me away. And the team traveled alone. No parents or anyone verifying everything was ok, coach was already up north and we just had to meet him. It was fun, just different ways then I am used to. I liked it. But when we got there we play against a team. Tied 10-10 at half. Second half we came out much stronger and were in the lead until the last 4 min. Tied once again at 20-20, they scored 2 points with just a min and half left. Big disappointment because I guess we needed to win that game. Coach was not happy... But, played really well, got lots of good goals in. The game was a good one, just needed a few touch ups here and there. We are working on it! I got the official email of going to Poland. That is going to be a blast! Nov 15-23! Be praying for me, I am really hoping I show well and get to play a lot!
Soccer- I am loving when I do get the chance to play because it has narrowed itself down just a little bit lately. Practice times have been all over the place this past week for handball, and handball is my priority here. But Monday, I did got to the fitness training and Tuesday did double back to back practices. We play indoor on a turf field. Just 7v7 5v5 and ball work stuff one those nights. It is really fun. I missed it Thursday night- bummer. Then Friday night got to go to another fitness practice. I am doing my best to get touches on the ball, but it has been pretty slim lately. Because Poland is coming up, my practice focus is on that. But, I will not lie to you, I love soccer so much. I am definitely having withdraws from it.
Social Life- Um... hm. What can I tell you about that? Not sure really, its been fun. Have actual friends not that I can just call and count on and hang out. Handball girls, school friends through Halli, coffee shop people. On Thursday I went with Toni to the place that she has been volunteering because she has no school. It is a Christian cafe that is really cool. I love the people there. We met this Indian man named George. He is one of the most humble men I have ever met. He has been in Iceland for 16 yrs and now owns his own restaurant called Indian Mango. He invited Toni, Petra, and I to dine there last Monday night (last night- and it was awesome! never tasted anything like it) on him. It was a very expensive dinner and he was so grateful that we came to eat it. Uh, really cool dude. Then Friday hanging with the handball girls was really fun, also again on Saturday afternoon was way fun. I miss just handing out with a group. I am all about the groups and lots of noise and chaos and people. Not getting too much of that here, which is a great thing and a bad thing. :) But then sat night I went to this Halloween dance at Broadway. It was really fun. Toni and I got dressed up as Mrs. Smith maybe, I am not really sure what we were actually. But we were definitely the most moderately dressed there, the girls were absolutely ridiculous! I couldn't believe it. We met up with this kid named Olli. He is really cool and we tagged along with him for the night. It was a good Halloween. Way different then trick-or-treating that's for sure. They don't even do that here. The most they do is go to shops dressed up and they have to sing to get candy, and not many do that and the ones that do are all under 10 yrs old. Its weird. But ya, that's a short short run down. I have turned out to be making quite a few friends. Steinar I probably see the most. He is sort of, well he is in love with Toni! haha. So I see lots of him. Andri and Frikki also tag along a bunch. Not much Frikkin anymore. Beta is awesome. She is so much fun, spunky crazy girl. Love chillen with here. Then there is like all of Halli's classmates; Orri, Glacier, Mushroom, Peter,... ugh can't remember the names. The names here are ridiculously hard to remember. The last three I just said are the translations because they are easier to remember! haha. O and Steppi. He is awesome. Takes me out for ice cream and cruzin and music and movies. He is really cool. He helped me with my computer last night. It has been so slow and virus filled, so he totally helped me out a bunch. It took like 2 and a half hrs, so we watched The Rock and fixed my computer. He is a nice kid. Elsa is also really cool. She is great and English and really wants to come to the states soon. Talks a lot! Gotta love it. There are all the people I have meet through Filadelphia (my Church) and through Glaetan (the christian cafe) as well. Tomas is the youth pastor, really cool dude. Petra, lovely 19 yr old girl. Eyore we call him. Petra's bf. funny kid. Katie and Eric who are married and basically live at Glaetan -live in the loft above it actually. They are really really cool down to earth people with a fire heart for God. It is fun to be around them. They joke and make fun of stuff just like back at home. Original form the states. Olli is sort of new, he is a handballer at FH and I met him just this weekend. We are going to hang out wed though. He is really nice, christian boy, lives in Hofnarfordur. Cool guy. Toni, Steinar, and I are gunna do a double date. haha! um... That's about it.
Family- My parents are still gone. Getting home on Thursday from a 3 week holiday in FL. Lucky Lucky ducks. But the house as been doing just fine without them. Rags has had a few people over on the weekends, Halli chills here all the time on the computer, and Erla has been sick since last week. I have been continuing to do dishes- not too happy about that one actually. I am NOT their mother! haha. No, it hasn't been too bad. O and Toni has been living here since Thursday night. Her family went on holiday until tomorrow so she has been crashing here. It has been fun, we have been working out in the mornings together at Hauker and doing devotions and stuff. She is really cool. We have been connecting tons. Which is good. :)
Well, that is once a gain a very general overview of my life here as you know it. It is still awesome! Getting busy more and more. I live for being busy, I go crazy without it. It fuels me, therefore, busy is good. School is hard of course, but still plugging along. All is well and appreciating all of your thoughts, prayers, and emails. Thanks everyone!
Handball-
It has been way awesome. Last week I just had normal practices that have been beneficial like always. Getting great technique and movement and drills and skills in. The whole shabang! We have been focusing mainly on a few plays that we are trying to get down to the science. Lots of crosses and fakes involved. Its really fun. My favorite thing in handball is when we pull a sweet play with lots of crossing and confuse the D like crazy and then find a wide open gap and get a totally free beautiful goal! That's what its all about. My coach is proving yet again to just be soo awesome! He talks with me after practices about things I'm doing well and things I can work on. A very awesome guy and full of encouragement. Rad dude - as we say it in Mo-town, CO!! We talked about doing a few extra sessions, but he and his wife just had a little baby girl about 2 and a half weeks ago, so he has is hands tied up at home. Understandable. ;) But that's ok, I still feel like I am gaining so much. Friday night was really fun with my team. Four of us went to Victoria's house and hung out for a bit. Just hanging with girls was fun, haven't done that in some time. Then her dad, who is awesome btw, made us a very nice dinner. Mexican food... so good! Her little brother is the cutest thing ever to. He can understand English, just not speak it. So he walked into the room with this crazy stare at me and asked me some question in Icelandic, I couldn't understand. Then he whispered to his sister, "Does the brown girl only speak English?" HAHAHA brown girl!!! It was really funny and one of the cutest things a four yr old has ever said I think. But then got in the hot tub (pottur) and chillaxed. After Saturday's practice a 4 girls met up at Haukup (the "walmart" of Iceland even though its not even close) in search of pumpkin carving. I somehow convinced a few girls to attempt to celebrate Halloween with me. But after our disastrous failure to find pumpkins anywhere, we went to my house and watched scary movies. Fun Fun day with the girls. Then on Sunday, we flew to Aeykiry (I think its called) to play a game. It is the second largest city in Iceland located about 6 hr drive north. The flight was only 45 min. It was really weird because we flew from Reyk airport, and there was absolutely NO security. I mean nothing. No metal detectors, anything. I am surprised they even checked our boarding passes, there was nothing! It blew me away. And the team traveled alone. No parents or anyone verifying everything was ok, coach was already up north and we just had to meet him. It was fun, just different ways then I am used to. I liked it. But when we got there we play against a team. Tied 10-10 at half. Second half we came out much stronger and were in the lead until the last 4 min. Tied once again at 20-20, they scored 2 points with just a min and half left. Big disappointment because I guess we needed to win that game. Coach was not happy... But, played really well, got lots of good goals in. The game was a good one, just needed a few touch ups here and there. We are working on it! I got the official email of going to Poland. That is going to be a blast! Nov 15-23! Be praying for me, I am really hoping I show well and get to play a lot!
Soccer- I am loving when I do get the chance to play because it has narrowed itself down just a little bit lately. Practice times have been all over the place this past week for handball, and handball is my priority here. But Monday, I did got to the fitness training and Tuesday did double back to back practices. We play indoor on a turf field. Just 7v7 5v5 and ball work stuff one those nights. It is really fun. I missed it Thursday night- bummer. Then Friday night got to go to another fitness practice. I am doing my best to get touches on the ball, but it has been pretty slim lately. Because Poland is coming up, my practice focus is on that. But, I will not lie to you, I love soccer so much. I am definitely having withdraws from it.
Social Life- Um... hm. What can I tell you about that? Not sure really, its been fun. Have actual friends not that I can just call and count on and hang out. Handball girls, school friends through Halli, coffee shop people. On Thursday I went with Toni to the place that she has been volunteering because she has no school. It is a Christian cafe that is really cool. I love the people there. We met this Indian man named George. He is one of the most humble men I have ever met. He has been in Iceland for 16 yrs and now owns his own restaurant called Indian Mango. He invited Toni, Petra, and I to dine there last Monday night (last night- and it was awesome! never tasted anything like it) on him. It was a very expensive dinner and he was so grateful that we came to eat it. Uh, really cool dude. Then Friday hanging with the handball girls was really fun, also again on Saturday afternoon was way fun. I miss just handing out with a group. I am all about the groups and lots of noise and chaos and people. Not getting too much of that here, which is a great thing and a bad thing. :) But then sat night I went to this Halloween dance at Broadway. It was really fun. Toni and I got dressed up as Mrs. Smith maybe, I am not really sure what we were actually. But we were definitely the most moderately dressed there, the girls were absolutely ridiculous! I couldn't believe it. We met up with this kid named Olli. He is really cool and we tagged along with him for the night. It was a good Halloween. Way different then trick-or-treating that's for sure. They don't even do that here. The most they do is go to shops dressed up and they have to sing to get candy, and not many do that and the ones that do are all under 10 yrs old. Its weird. But ya, that's a short short run down. I have turned out to be making quite a few friends. Steinar I probably see the most. He is sort of, well he is in love with Toni! haha. So I see lots of him. Andri and Frikki also tag along a bunch. Not much Frikkin anymore. Beta is awesome. She is so much fun, spunky crazy girl. Love chillen with here. Then there is like all of Halli's classmates; Orri, Glacier, Mushroom, Peter,... ugh can't remember the names. The names here are ridiculously hard to remember. The last three I just said are the translations because they are easier to remember! haha. O and Steppi. He is awesome. Takes me out for ice cream and cruzin and music and movies. He is really cool. He helped me with my computer last night. It has been so slow and virus filled, so he totally helped me out a bunch. It took like 2 and a half hrs, so we watched The Rock and fixed my computer. He is a nice kid. Elsa is also really cool. She is great and English and really wants to come to the states soon. Talks a lot! Gotta love it. There are all the people I have meet through Filadelphia (my Church) and through Glaetan (the christian cafe) as well. Tomas is the youth pastor, really cool dude. Petra, lovely 19 yr old girl. Eyore we call him. Petra's bf. funny kid. Katie and Eric who are married and basically live at Glaetan -live in the loft above it actually. They are really really cool down to earth people with a fire heart for God. It is fun to be around them. They joke and make fun of stuff just like back at home. Original form the states. Olli is sort of new, he is a handballer at FH and I met him just this weekend. We are going to hang out wed though. He is really nice, christian boy, lives in Hofnarfordur. Cool guy. Toni, Steinar, and I are gunna do a double date. haha! um... That's about it.
Family- My parents are still gone. Getting home on Thursday from a 3 week holiday in FL. Lucky Lucky ducks. But the house as been doing just fine without them. Rags has had a few people over on the weekends, Halli chills here all the time on the computer, and Erla has been sick since last week. I have been continuing to do dishes- not too happy about that one actually. I am NOT their mother! haha. No, it hasn't been too bad. O and Toni has been living here since Thursday night. Her family went on holiday until tomorrow so she has been crashing here. It has been fun, we have been working out in the mornings together at Hauker and doing devotions and stuff. She is really cool. We have been connecting tons. Which is good. :)
Well, that is once a gain a very general overview of my life here as you know it. It is still awesome! Getting busy more and more. I live for being busy, I go crazy without it. It fuels me, therefore, busy is good. School is hard of course, but still plugging along. All is well and appreciating all of your thoughts, prayers, and emails. Thanks everyone!
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