TRIPS

Our time in Lieksa has been pleasantly complemented with little trips we have taken. 

For Samu, the most important ones have been the trips he takes by bike. Every day he gets to practice with Ukki. And he has even introduced Sofia to the concept, who is, of course, thrilled.

(Note Samu jumping for joy!)

One thing both kids can say in three languages: Swing! It's best when they can face each other and chat/sing/scream together.

Luckily, there is always something to do around the house.

And there is always another trip: Pikkukili has become a staple of our Lieksa summers.

Everyone except Samu was a bit scared of the bull.

"Hey, pony, come and eat!" (Sofia)

Reindeer!

We remember this little guy. He was born the day before we first visited Pikkukili in 2012.

"See, Sofia, they don't fly!" (Samu)

Rolling down the hill

Sausage time!

How does this ...

always ...

lead to this? ;-)

Back at home, Hanna was so excited to find some childhood memories. Unfortunately, Sofia, the girl who fears nothing, was scared of Maya the Bee (!).

Another important trip we took was to Paateri, our wedding church. It triggered so many wonderful memories. We still love to remember all the people that were there and things that were said. A great place for us to visit. We would get married in this beautiful place (built by a woman!) again.

Samu and Sofia walking down the path we took to our wedding boat 8 years ago.

The church of Paateri

We also visited Eeva Ryynänen's workshop. She is the artist who built the church - and many other things.

From here, we got on the small boat to the wedding reception while our choir was singing. It was absolutely perfect.

As usual, the trip ended in a kid-friendly way: Bouncy castle and ice cream seemed like an appropriate combination.

We enjoyed some home time before the next trip ...

to kesämökki (summer cabin)!

Two little "helpers" ...

Picking flowers

Time for one more trip: By boat!

The beautiful Finnish landscapes are even better from a boat.

To end this lovely excursion in a memorable way, Samu caught his first fish (after fishing for 5 minutes). Big excitement for the whole family!

Good times, good trips.