Sunday, 6 July 2014

Norma's Turn. #2

I must have been a Finn in a previous life. The little summer cottage (My dream home) overlooking the Sea of Finland with a wood burning sauna on the sea shore was home to one of the wealthy class. They value privacy and courtesy and are totally unpretentious. If a very small house will do, why live in a bigger one.
Lithuania was absolutely enchanting (other than the Soviet era razor wire). Our guide was raised in a pagan, matriarchical society and there was a true sparkle in her eyes as she described the mythical creatures in the woods. No mammoth Lutherin, Orthodox or RC churches vying for dominance  -
NO NO - you better watch out or the bad witches will get you!!
From the Estonians to the Finns to the Lithuanians to the Swedes, all are concerned about Russia wielding their hammer. The undercurrent is there. Being members of NATO helps relieve their anxiety.
That being said all are incredibly outdoor people. There are walking and bike paths everywhere, even in the middle of nowhere. It seems that a 40 kilometer bike ride barely raises a sweat, so why not go for another 60. All have green fingers which produce amazing gardens.
Although Mary Lou thought the Mariehamn guide was " easy to look at" I; myself, preferred the cute little Estonian.
I'm having a wonderful time. We have experienced the flavor of the Baltic. I must admit; though, that I miss my little girl AKA Melody Pearl.
Have just woken up from a nap on the balcony.  Perfect!
Blue - a couple from South Carolina, 1st the wife and then the husband, noticed my Keeneland cap. They go to Lexington every year to watch the races and the KD. He highly recommends that we stay in Midway the next time we're down that way.

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