A Year in Finland: A Brand New Home!

After a week at Karkku, I once again packed up my suitcases and said goodbye to some close friends. It felt like leaving all over again. Even though I had only known the other exchange students for a few days, I know I have made some lasting relationships. I can't wait for the Rotary trips, just so that I can see them again.

Around Camp

The Sauna at Karkku

The Lake at Karkku

After our first Sauna

On Thursday, we took a trip from Karkku to Tampere. Tampere one of the bigger cities on Finland. We had to meet several Rotarians, so I was sad we didn't get longer to look around the city. Here are some photos from around Tampere.

The ride from Karkku to my new home was quite long-- about 4 hours. Fortunately, I slept the entire way. I live in a small town named Taipalsaari, but I will be going to school in a bigger city named Lappeenranta. Lappenranta is about the size of Bloomington, Indiana. My host family has been so welcoming. I really do feel like I am part of the family. :) Today, my host parents took me to a nearby beach where the water was freezing but surprisingly nice.