Finland : Around the house

The weather was just great for the first half of our stay. Warm enough to eat outside for most meals and for the kids to be able to play in the lake for long stretches of time. Henry loved moving sand and water and tossing rocks into the lake. Nora did some floating and kicking with the inner tube.

We fed any ducks that came by. Nora named these two "Garlic" and "Handsome."The neighboring farmer cut and baled his first hay so we walked down for a closer look.We took the big kids out in the row boat.

Finland 09 : Early Days

We crossed off a lot of our "to-do-on-vacation" list on day one. We ate breakfast on the dock, cooked sausages and lettut over the fire for dinner, had a sauna, and the kids played in the lake. We saw long-time friends and met a few new ones. The kids were up early (about 3.30) because of the time change so we were able to fit in a second breakfast.The next few days brought more fun. We went on an afternoon jaunt to Pulkkilanharju and then had our afternoon coffee at the harbor.Enjoying their first Finnish ice cream novelty.

Yogurt

I started thinking about making my own yogurt a few years ago. There wasn't a pressing need at the time; I was the only one in the family who ate it regularly. Then Mystie tried making some and we shared the batches this winter. When she needed a break I tried my hand at it. I've turned 5 gallons of perfectly good milk into yogurt now and I am so pleased. It is much cheaper than buying it by the quart and tastes better too. I found this website very helpful. I have modified the process slightly, I incubate in my oven with the light on rather than in a cooler. The kids love it and it is a wonderful summer breakfast when paired with our own granola.

Helena plays the kazoo

Ballet recital 09

Nora did very well. Each dancer got a free snow cone after their performance which was a lovely surprise. We had a pre-recital celebratory dinner and then made our way to the park. We arrived just before Nora was called backstage to dress and then stayed a while afterward to watch some of the other classes.

Cherry season

Recital Rehearsal

Dress rehearsal this morning at the park. Nora is so excited for the performance. We have been counting down for at least 10 days. She convinced me to stop for an iced chai on the way home because "today is her special day."
Watching another performance and waiting for their turn.And a video clip:



Remember last year?