Flying over Helsinki, Finland, the ground is blanketed in snow. My Florida boots are getting a workout this winter.
Instead of making snow angels, sightseeing, or visiting relatives, this two-week trip will be spent in isolation, writing the last few chapters of my novel-in-progress. If weather permits, I might take a train to the city.
Being here conjures fond memories of visits past
My first trip to Finland in 2002, introduced me to the bright bold designs from Marimekko, the Helsinki Cathedral, Sibelius Monument (composer Jean Sibelius 1865-1957), and fresh cooked salmon at Market Square.
2005
Bike riding and berry picking
Useful tool for gathering lingonberries
In 2010 my husband and I traveled with relatives to a B&B near the Russian border. First, the water pipes froze. Then we lost electricity.
We Drove Farther North . . .
Savolinna, Finland
The northernmost medieval stone fortress still standing
The largest wooden church in the world
And Farther . . .
Arctic Circle
Science center and museum of Finnish Lapland
Time to eat!
Let’s heat the sauna!
No swimsuits allowed
Finns love their books. Tove Jansson’s chubby hippopotamus-like Moomin family has stolen my heart.
My Finnish roots first drew me to Finland. But this country’s tranquil beauty continues to call me back.
Where is your favorite place to rest and rejuvenate?
Chippewa Falls, WI. Not far from home, but leaves the responsibilities and tasks behind, for about 36 hours.
The best places are usually in your own backyard. And sometimes it’s the actual backyard!
The backyard doesn’t do it for me because I get too distracted by weeds that need pulling, twigs that need pruning or flowers that are waiting to be picked.
Guess I have to pack my books and go to the cabin where there are no weeds, twigs or flowers.
Wherever your happy place is, a good book is required.