Today we had a free day to explore Vaasa and many of us spent a portion of the day shopping for a few of our favourite Finnish things. You may be asking yourself, "What exactly are the Finnish things that one would shop for?" Well here they are:
1. Marimekko Marimekko is a Finnish company that sells bold and brightly coloured and patterned clothing, bags, fabrics, and some home decor. The company began in 1951 by Armi Ratia. Marimekko's most easily recognized design is a poppy pattern called Unikko. Marimekko also sells glassware that looks like a medieval goblet. When I asked why the glassware is so popular with the Finns she wasn't sure but she knew that many have these glass pieces. Also she said that when a new colour comes out, many Finns go out and purchase it.
2. Kalevala Kalevala is Finnish jewellery named after a traditional collection of works that were sung by Finnish heroes. It was believed that the best heroes could sing their enemies away. Kalevala jewellery is known for using traditional patterns and is therefore named after the traditional song. My favourite part of Kalevala is that each jewellery piece comes with a small history booklet that explains the history of the piece.
3. Alvar Aalto Glassware Alvar Aalto is a famous Finnish architect. He created a unique shape which he named "An Eskimo Woman's Leather Trousers." I think it looks like the silhouette of a Volkswagen Beatle. "I think it looks like a puzzle piece," said Gailmarie. Or perhaps it was the apple cider talking. This unique shape is available in a variety of dishes, vases, and candy holders. If you enter a Finnish home you are likely to find an Alvar Aalto design.
4. Karl Fazer Chocolate Mmmm...chocolate....need I say more?
5. Moomin Paraphanalia Moomin is a famous Finnish children's character who was created by a Swedish speaking lady Finn in the 1950's. The Moomins are a family of trolls who go through difficult times especially with various characters. I think they look more like hippopotamuses rather than trolls but then again I have been thinking that Moomin is blue instead of white! Or perhaps the apple cider is talking again!
6. Pentik Pentik is a Finnish company that sells glassware and home decor for kitchens and bathrooms. Very nice things!
7. Samiakki Samiakki is salty liquorice. There are many kinds but so far they all taste the same to me. I am still learning to like it.
8. Xylitol Candies This is like a gum but it contains an ingredient called xylitol that protects your teeth. Xylitol is made from the sap from a birch tree and it counteracts the acidity of sugar in your mouth. People eat it after meals. Why is this fabulous product not in Canada? It is not available in Canada as it has not passed regulations yet. In the words of one of our Finnish friends, eating too much xylitol makes your "stomach loose."
9. Loftit Tourist Office Goods Vaasa has a great tourist office with an excellent gift shop. There were many Finnish items including felt shoes, ceramics, and knick knacks.
The stores were open at 10:00 am and they closed at 3:00 or 4:00 pm. Therefore there was no time to waste! Surprisingly Marty was quite the shopper! We weren't sure how he would do but even last night Marty wasn't sure if he would be able to sleep because he was starting to become very excited for the next day of shopping. Even at breakfast he refused to eat bacon because he was so eager to "hit the stores." In the end he did very well. We had to drag him out of the stores and I believe he teared up when he found out that the shops will all be closed tomorrow (Sunday). Just kidding Marty...but you did do well. I was very proud of you!
That pretty much sums up our day. After supper in our hotel we experienced an Icelandic music concert. We are just sitting around typing emails, writing in our blogs, and visiting while enjoying cider and of course chocolate. Tomorrow’s plans are still up in the air. There are a few options floating around...walking, sauna, dog show... We will see what tomorrow brings.
Before signing off for the evening, I just want to say that we all really enjoyed our host families in Vaasa. We have been calling them "our people." My "people" were just great. I will miss the great conversation and all the delicious homemade treats.
Keep tuned to the blog.
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