Independence Day

"Let Freedom ring, let the white dove sing
Let the whole world know that today is a
Day of reckoning
Let the weak be strong, let the right be wrong
Roll the stone away,
Let the guilty pay,
It's Independence Day."
- Martina McBride

89 years ago, Finland claimed its independence from Russia. Now a national holiday, business are closed, flags are flown with pride, and parades are marched throughout the city. The main event of this holiday takes place at the Presidential Palace. Political figures, celebrities, and other famous names fill the 2000+ guest list that walk the 'red carpet' into the gala. Locals watch TV as the event is live and critics discuss the attire. Rumor has it the musical group Lordi (Eurovision Song Contest 2006 winners) is not allowed inside with their masks on this year.

Families can show their pride by lighting 2 candles in their window at 1800. Historically these two candles were used as a sign to inform Finnish Jäger troops that the house was ready to offer shelter and keep them hidden from the Russians.

Happy Birthday

"Paljon onnea vaan.
Paljon onnea vaan.
Paljon onnea 'Big.'
Paljon onnea vaan!"
- Happy Birthday in Finnish








Today our 'Big' turned 3 years old! We celebrated the event with cake, candles, and presents. Finnish tradition mirrors American with birthday celebrations. The only difference is individuals are also recognized on their "name day" (the Saint's day they are named after). Since our children are named according to the Saint's day on which they were born, there would be no difference. Big, thanks for an amazing, life changing 3 years!

Ginger Bread

"Ginger bread, ginger bread,
ginger bread, ginger bread,
You're full of sugar. You're full of spice.
You're kinda naughty, but you're naughty and nice."
- Frankie Avalon


Another wet, dark, and dreary Monday in Helsinki, Finland. Today we decided to pass some time by decorating our ginger bread houses for the holidays. The boys had so much fun, but probably ate more candy than what actually made it on their house.

What's Your Name

"What's your name, little girl,
what's your name?
Shootin' you straight, little girl,
for there ain't no shame.
What's your name, little girl,
what's your name?"
- Lynyrd Skynyrd


Today we attended a friend's baptism of their 3 month old girl. Held in the Helsingin Tuomiokirkko (a.k.a. Helsinki Cathedral), friends and family filled the church as the child was not only welcomed into the Lutheran faith, but her name was also revealed. It is a very common Finnish tradition to keep a baby's name secret until the Christening or naming ceremony. This superstition dates back to ancient beliefs that supernatural influences may cause harm to their infant. But once the child is christened, then they are protected. Others feel as if saying the child's name before baptism is bad luck. And there is the belief that the child's name is not used, because it has not been "given" yet. Until the baptism or naming ceremony takes place, the child is referred to as a nickname such as Peanut, Bump, Strawberry, etc.




We began the day playing on the Cathedral's stairs, hoping it would tire out the boys. Unfortunately, once we went inside they enjoyed the new scenery and got a second wind. After a few games of chase in the pews, crayons and stickers covering the program, and a handful of matchbox cars (along with car sounds) raced on the seats, the ceremony ended.





We then walked a few blocks to the reception where we were all pumped with coffee and sugar from some wonderful Finnish pastries.

If We Make It Through December

"If we make it through December,
Everythings gonna be alright I know.
It's the coldest time of winter
And I shiver when I see the fallin' snow."
- Merle Haggard

FINALLY...The month I have been waiting for ever since, well ever since we boarded the plane to come over here! The month we get to go home.


Spring was dreary but exciting. Everything new and waiting to be discovered. Summer was beautiful, full of visitors, vacations and sunshine. Autumn was colorful. Smiles still covering strangers faces. Winter (even though it is not officially here yet) has been nothing but gray skies, constant drizzle, accompanied by VERY little sunshine. I now understand why Finland once led the world in suicide and alcoholism rates. The drab environment, lack of socialization, and never-ending darkness leave some people hopeless.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a serious diagnosis for many living in the Artic region. The lack of daylight is the perpetrator. Happy lights, increased consumption of Vit D, or a week vacation at a tropical destination are all recommended treatments.

We are all hanging on by a string but counting down the days until we get to come home. Everyone I have met claims November and December as being the "roughest months" and I now agree. Once we return in January, the days will be lengthening 5 minutes with each sunset and the ground should be covered in snow, illuminating the remaining darkness.