All the whiteness I could find in town

First, I need to correct what I wrote last week. Having now seen a throat specialist, it's so obvious: the problem is in the stomach (esophagus) not throat or vocal chords (nor thyroid). What a relief! There is medication available, and dietary adjustments help. Just had not thought of it: never had heartburn i.e. never recognised any.

And then on to an even more current theme. As we Finns celebrate Christmas already on Christmas Eve, it's about time to wish Merry Christmas to everyone!

Unlike most Christmases in my life, this one is not white at all. It feels somber, knowing this is not normal in Finland. Only an artificial ice rink will survive in this warmed-up place these days.