Ukki on my mind

My two-day stay at Ukinranta was an encouraging one. The spontaneous meeting of old and new friends was really refreshing. The rooms are nice! And so are the views. I felt at home - pretty much like in the good old Morbacka, which we now have left behind us.

After my annual ritual or rug washing, the pier railings became neatly decorated. Ukki makes for great swimming too!

We also did some visioning/brainstorming on the future of Ukinranta. What would be its true mission? We are fond of its name, "ukki" meaning grandfather (and "ranta" beach or shore). What kind of grandfatherly wisdom or care could be nurtured - and shared - in that house?

Cloud staring

It has been over two years since the last public appearance of the Happy Foot. (Which, of course, is entirely different from the pair of voting feet, right.) Time for an update, huh?

The foot and its owner spent an enjoyable week in the ever-refreshing atmosphere of Heponiemi. Despite the largely exciting voluntary work that was assigned to me, and several laid-back conversations, there were many lovely moments suitable for staring at clouds, the lake and the many birds (whose names I rather leave as a mystery, hmm) ... And to listen to the soothing song of the waves.

Voting with my feet

Last Tuesday I noticed - somewhat by surprise - that all the items on my work to-do list had been cleared. This means holiday!

The first few days were then spent with my nephew who's just returned home from his exchange year in Spain. Yesterday, along our bike tour, we found some fun & thought provoking pieces of environmental art in the Kivinokka recreation area. This one is called "Vote with your feet".

There are many things and commitments planned for the forthcoming 5 weeks. Three weeks will be spent in silent retreat houses, combining rest and voluntary work. Yet two weeks remain unprogrammed. Beautiful.