Wow – It really is hard to believe that 7.5 months have went by so quickly, and my Finnish adventure is drawing to close. For now, at least …
While the main purpose of my trip was academic, I made the best of the opportunity to see this fantastic part of northern Europe and enjoy it spectacular nature and birdlife, as well as its interesting history and culture.
And I have to admit I've fallen in love with Finland -- its people, its traditions, and its language. And, for the most part, I've really felt at home here. Wherever and whenever I've travelled, I have met interesting and friendly people -- and am especially grateful to the many birders who have been generous with their time, energy and advice during my many adventures, from the local people here Kuopio, to those I've met in places like Kuusamo, Liminginlahti and Lapland.
And there will always be the little things, which I know I will miss when I leave … the nightless nights of summer, ruisleipä (dark rye bread), evenings of sauna, the salty sweet taste of salmiakki, and roasting makkara (and, of course, the beautiful Finnish girls – but that goes without saying!!). Salmiakki I can bring with me, but the rest I know I will eventually come back for.
But my heart lies in nature and that, above all else, is what I have fallen in love with and what will draw me back. The amazing solitude of the Finnish forests, the gleaming lakes under a midnight sun, the beautiful voices of night-singers, the crisp air and brilliant snow of winter …
I will miss it. But I’ll be back.