The seasons come and the seasons change. Time keeps rolling on. The journey of life sometimes feels long, but it is not endless. The last days of summer, of early life and youth are behind me now, they are but a distant memory. During my summer days, I felt fearless, spontaneous, dynamic, and self-confident. I…
Tag: Letting go
This Moment
I got up before sunrise and hurried out the door. I could hear the birds; they sounded way chirpier than I felt. My mum is having surgery, so I am keeping dad company today. I made us some morning porridge, a cup of chai for me and a cup of coffee for dad. We sat…
Afternoon Tea
I recently had my grandson over for a couple of nights during the school holidays. I don’t know what came over me, but I got a bit soppy, hugging him as he left. One moment he is little, with his cheeky smile that always reaches his eyes, his think blonde hair and that never-ending energy…
My Dad, My Hero
When I was born, I’ve been told, my father was so glad, that a little girl had been born to him, he held me in his loving hands. My father took care of me, always so tenderly. He was there to teach, to comfort and to always watch over me. My father’s love for me…
Karelian Weddings
My son is getting married the day after tomorrow. Our family is in the midst of excitement, of joy and of butterflies in the stomach. How delighted I am to see two people who deserve happiness to find it with each other. I am fascinated by different traditions and customs from across the world. Maybe…
Timeless Treasures
When I was a little girl and lived in Finland, I had a special friend. Her name was Tiina. My friend and I lived a few hundred metres from each other and were in the same class at school. A lot of the time, she almost lived at my place, only going home to sleep….
The Royal Symphony
Some time ago now, I had an unforgettable experience, at The Sydney Opera House where I got to listen to the masterful performance of Pictures at an Exhibition by Sydney Symphony Orchestra by conductor Giancarlo Guerrero. There is something about live music that is exhilarating. As an audience member I felt more than a spectator,…
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…
Apples of Gold 