… my mother’s boss decided to address me as Adelheid. It threw me off for a minute because my middle name was nowhere close to what she was calling me, phonetically or through any stretch of the imagination when it came to meaning. As it soon transpired there was a more sinister element to her bestowing such a Germanic name on my poor teenage self.
Tag: On Countries
Trying to understand the little intricacies that make a country what it is, purports to be and what it really, truly wants deep, deep, deep, deep down inside when it’s convinced itself that no one else is looking.
When Finnish Independence Day and the Xmas Spirit Collide
As Finnish Independence Day comes and goes the city is ablaze with Christmas lights Finnish style. Which means, more reminiscent of a traditional country Christmas than the neon lights seen in most capitals and cities of importance. For the record, I love and embrace both (much more than the concept of snow beyond Epiphany). The…
The Finland, Finland, Finland! Initiation Quiz
So you’ve set your sights on Finland and now you want to pay the country a visit. Or you’re going all in and are about to move there. Have you thought this through? Are you aware of how you will fit in (or won’t)? It usually takes at least three months to get a proper…
My Intro to Poland
My relationship with Poland has led me to clearly distinguish between relatives and family. Relatives I’m connected to by blood (due to unfortunate events) whereas my family are the people I choose to have around me and who have chosen me in turn, people I love and am able to trust completely. People who will leave no stone unturned in lifting you up and display no hesitation when it comes to letting you know when you stepped out of line, and then support you all the way through.
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