We Have Arrived!

Day 1:  August 9, 2011
We arrived in Helsinki after 19 hours of travel. We had 4 huge bags in tow all weighing in at over 70 pounds!  We each also had a heavy carry on bag and one (or two) personal items to carry. I hope to never travel this heavy again. Much to our chagrin, one of the bags did not arrive when we did.  After a brief panic, we were assured that it would arrive later that evening as it was still in Amsterdam. Whew! Tragedy one averted.  After a much needed nap, we had dinner at the hotel.  The day ended with a couple of lessons learned.  1) Alayna learned that the "shower" next to the commode is not really a shower.  I had to correct her when she emerged from the bathroom at the airport with her shirt soaked.  2)You really shouldn't pack a jar of mayonnaise in your luggage.

Day 2:  August 10, 2011
Today we headed for Imatra, the place we will call home for the next two years.  It was a three hour train ride from Helsinki and was not without its adventures.  Getting all those suitcases on and off the train was an adventure in itself.  Immediately after checking in at the hotel, we were off to the bank to open an account and then to tour our apartment choices (2).  The bank was uneventful.  The apartment, was interesting and small.  Our closets are similar to what you would have at a hotel.  The main bathroom will also serve as the laundry room.  I am trying to look at it as another way to multi-task.  I can wash my hair and start a load of laundry at the same time.  Once I figure how to add pictures to this blog, I will definitely have to post some.
Day 2 Lessons:  1) Weigh your produce and put a sticker on it before you check out. 2) Bring your own bags to the grocery store as there are none there.

Day 3:  August 11, 2011
Today was a relaxed day and we were able to do some exploring of the town.  We were able to locate the city recreation center which offers such activities as swimming, dancing, gymnastics and weightlifting to name a few.  We also located the bowling alley and their small movie theater. 

We decided to go with the smaller but newer apartment.  This smaller apartment is located in a more scenic area as opposed to the much bigger and smellier one that is closer to city traffic and  is on the third floor with no elevator.
Day 3 Lessons:  1) There is no right on red in Finland.  2)  Size doesn't really matter as much as the scenery and the smell.