Winter of Discontent

William Shakespeare first used the phrase “Winter of Discontent” in his popular play Richard III, where King Richard is expressing his feelings of discontent. We get the idea that he is not happy with his current situation. Later Shakespeare’s line has been used to describe several historical world events such as the winter of 1978-79…

Christmas 1939

Written by Jaana Jokinen, told by my father Matti Samuli 30th November 1939 “All aboard!” The conductor’s booming cry drew my mum to her feet. “The train is leaving, let’s go!” I clapped my hands enthusiastically.  I could hardly contain my excitement.  Even though I was barely four years old, I had travelled quite a…

Dancing Lights in the Sky

I come from the country of the midnight sun. I come from the country of thousands of crystal blue lakes, of untouched forests, abundance of wild berries and mushrooms, of reindeer and bears. I come from the country of clean air and where the lights dance in the sky. It’s the nation that loves tango,…

Silence

When life feels a little overwhelming and you need a place of escape, what does your place of refuge look like? Mine looks like this! In my mind’s eyes I walk barefoot in the cool of the night, hear the creaking sound of the jetty underneath me as it slowly sways on the water. I…

Sunrise Sunset

Is your favourite season spring, the time of rebirth, daffodils and new beginnings? Or do you prefer the summer fields laden with golden yellow flowers and humming bees darting through the air? Maybe you are like me and prefer the shorter, cooler days of autumn with an incredible display of vibrant colours. Yet isn’t there…