The day started early with a trip to the Jokipiin Linen Factory. This factory weaves linen products like table cloths, table runners, sauna mats, towels, and bath robes. Timo, the managing director, toured us through the process of weaving from "start to finish." We then had some time to shop in the store. Marty modelled many 160 EUR bathrobes, but in the end he couldn't make a choice and left empty handed.
We then visited the church in Jalasjarvi. One of our hosts, Aulis, toured us through the church. He used to be a pastor at the church for 30 years.
From there we went to "Devil's Nest." Devil's Nest is a 23 metre deep hole in the earth that is 14 metres wide. This huge "pot hole" has been there for many ice ages. Nobody can explain why it exists. There is the myth that the devil once lived in the cavern...hence the name "Devil's Nest." We took the opportunity to climb down to the bottom of the cavern and then later we climbed the 21 metre tower beside the hole. From this tower, we had a great view of the surrounding area.
We then had lunch at the Juustoporti cheese factory. This factory has been in production for forty years. They use 18 million litres of milk per year! Where are all the cows! We sampled many different types of cheese and we had ice cream for dessert.
Our day ended with a visit to the driving school. The Finns have 26 driving schools where potential drivers can practise their driving. This driving school has a driving track complete with turns, pylons to dodge, and an area of smooth pavement covered in oil and water to simulate slippery conditions. We definately took advantage of this last area! Oh...and the driving school office was the first workplace we have visited that didn't have a sauna!
On the topic of sauna...I have made the following conclusions regarding the Finnish tradition of ice swimming and sauna. All conclusions are based on solid first hand experience. My expert results are as follows:
* Using the sauna without the use of cold water swimming or showering = TOO HOT!
* Ice swimming without sauna to follow (as seen in the Seinajoki kayaking fiasco) = TOO COLD!
* Use the sauna with an ice swim or cold shower = JUST RIGHT!
All in all, today was a great day! The evening ended with our last meal at the hotel. Three of us enjoyed a reindeer filet which was very Finnish!
Tomorrow we leave for Kauhajoki. Thanks Seinajoki Rotary for being great hosts!
More pictures later...they are slow to download tonight!
We are enjoying following all the activities and sites with you and the rest of the team. Very
ReplyDeleteenjoyable. Must have been a bit of shock when you tipped the kayak and landed in the water??
Mom & Dad (Christina's)