I hope you are not too worried about me.. I am alive and well. Things have gotten pretty hectic here since we got out for break. We got out of school the friday before christmas, and on Saturday and Sunday I devoted my days to finding gifts for my host family. I know, I know, I'm a procrastinator. :o) It turned out to be a lot harder than I thought. But, all in all, everything turned out ok. Christmas here is very laid back. I spent 3 whole days inside the house and only left to go to church and to the cemetary. It is a custom for Finns to have dinner on Christmas eve with their immediate family. After which, they go to chruch for 45 minutes, and then go to the cemetary, where they light candles for all of their loved ones. It is a VERY beautiful sight to see. Not a single grave is without a candle in front of it. Some have several. Since Santa Clause lives in Finland (Yes, it's true, he doesn't live in the North Pole), While you are away he brings gifts to your house. Then we open all of our gifts and drink wine and watch tv. On Christmas day, other family comes and visits, or vice versa. So I had a very nice holiday. The thursday after Christmas, I was traveling throughout Finland and visiting friends. I came back just in time to celebrate New Year's.

School will be starting up again soon, and I'm a little excited to get back out in the city. heh. We have changed our money here, I'm not sure if you guys in Europe have changed yet. We changed from Markka, to Euro's. It's so much easier for me now because Euro's are very close to the Dollar. The Finnish people aren't too excited about it though. :o) Well I hope everyone is ok and alive. It's been -15 F here (-25C) and I know its been pretty cold in Europe too.

Enjoy it while it lasts!!

Sarah