Project-meeting in Lublin 5th- 9th. November 2009

Our 4th meeting took place in Lublin in Poland. We had much fun and enjoyed fantastic hospitality from our host Magda and her crew. We were happy to see many of our Polish friends again, and to meet new ones. It was a great experience to see your school and meet your pupils in their everyday life. Thank you so much, Magda and all the rest of you friendly Polish teachers! Here is a resyme from our trip:

Thursday After a night in Warsaw, the Welsh and the Norwegian team met onboard the train to Lublin. We were happy to see everyone again. Magda and friends met us at the trainstation and led us to the wonderful Vanilla Hotel in Lublir centre. Also Estonian and English team had arrived safely, and we all enjoyed our welcome-dinner at Vanilla Restaurant.

Friday was schoolvisit-day. We were picked up quite early by Greg, and brought straight to Swidnik by bus. Here we entered the very big school no 5, and were treated with cakes and coffee in the library. We were warmly welcomed by the nice headteacher, before entering class 0 for their morning session.

Later we were guided around school by 3 very polite young men, and also attended various classes.

Finally we were introduced to the Polish legend about the Devils Handprint, very lively presented by students. We were also entertained by very talented childeren, a choire, dance-

groups, cheerleaders and a very special charming young pop-star. We enjoyed the entertainment a lot!!

Lunch was held in the Town Hall, where Mayor Thomas welcomed us and told us about schoolsystem in Swidnik. The result from the Borni-legend was presented, and finally the Polish Treasure-boxes were handed out. Before heading back to Lublin we had a stroll around Swidnik centre, and visited a very special restaurant from the Communist-times. Very authentic, according to Magda. Even the staff was the same as in the 60'ies...Friday night was a lively evening in dinner and dancing at restaurant Czarcia Łapa. A very lively night!

Saturday we went for a guided tour in Old Town and Lublin castle.

Later on our guide took us to see Majdanek Concentration camp Museum. A very heavy experience, but also important. We were all taken by the tragedy of which we were reminded, but also glad that we took the time to face this part of our common Europes history. This visit made a huge impression on all of us, and we thank Magda for giving us the opportunity.

Saturday night was last night in Lublin, and what a night! Our Polish hosts took us to Sielsko Anielsko Traditional Folk Restaurant, and treated us with loads of different delicious dishes and vodka.

There were singing and music to go, and we had a great night together. We have a fantastic friendly atmosphere amongst us, don't you agree?

Sunday was farewell, Wales left early, while Estonia, England and Norway was heading for a night in Warsaw. Monica, Jolla and Magda- propably exhausted- came to say goodbye and make sure we really left! We thank all of the Polish team for having us and making our stay unforgettable. A special thanks is for a very special woman: Magda: You rule!