Sunny Days

During a very wet summer there have been a few sunny days. Below a few photos of what we have been up to when the sun has been shining.


Thomas and Hwei-Ming washing mats. Finnish homes generally have wooden floors decorated by mats, which need to be washed once in a while. Traditionally, this is done in a local lake and the town provides outdoor facilities where mats can be washed and dried. For children, it is great fun.


Thomas and Henry paddling in Sammonlahti. After the "hard work" of washing mats, the boys got to spend some time enjoying the lake.


A few days later we were invited by some Chinese colleagues to a sauna and barbecue at the university's "beach sauna". Below some more photos.


Our hosts around the barbecue. The menu was very Finnish and included potatoes, grilled courgettes, grilled mushrooms and the ubiquitous Finnish "makkara" (sausage).


Henry practising his rowing.


Meanwhile, Thomas is in shallower waters.


The final photo is at the request of Hwei-Ming, who wishes to provide evidence that I can indeed be persuaded to make contact with cold water.


Luckily there is a warm sauna nearby. Brrrr!