Cold weather, exercise, animals-all things I hate or am afraid of; and yet here in Finland I am loving the experience of all three. But that’s what’s fun about traveling- getting to revel in an experience foreign to your own. And every once in a while, moving so far outside your comfort zone that when you return, you’re not the same person you once were.
So many firsts for us in Finland: reindeers, toboggans, sleigh rides, food, culture, people, places, and things.
Of all our experiences, the whole family unanimously decided dog sledding was the absolute favorite. We loved it so much, we had to do it twice. And it wasn’t just the sheer exhilaration of flying through the snow, but the adorable dogs that won us over. And even though I admit I didn’t think I would enjoy Finland, it definitely grew on me. And hey, if the zombie apocalypse ever comes, I think I will be okay.
This little baby Alaska husky is only 4 months old, and Olivia fell in love with him straightaway.
A private session learning all about these special dogs was surprisingly fun and interesting.
The kids were mostly interested in petting and cuddling him though.
And then outside for a chance to “run the dogs.” These wooden sleds are covered with reindeer fur to keep you warm.
Never in a million years did I ever imagine I would be dog sledding in the Arctic Circle.
We started early in the morning, and got to watch the sun rise as we sped through the snow.
Seeing lovely scenes like this unfold as we flew by.
It made me think of the famous Robert Frost line, “The woods are lovely dark and deep…”
At the end we had more chances to play with the dogs. The guides told us these kind of dogs do not make the best pets, but they are definitely loved here.Everyone got to drive the sleds except Olivia.
But we all played along and let her pretend to be the driver.
And then it was back to the toboggan slopes.
We had to try the mother of all hills. This massive hill takes forever to ascend but it’s worth it.
Paige and Olivia race down at top speed.
And no matter how many times she fell or how cold it got, Olivia was never ready to go inside.
We spent almost the entire day outside playing, and even going on a snowmobiling safari later in the day.
Olivia played well into the night.
Here she is very proud of her first snowman.
And the finale of it all-fireworks in the Arctic Circle to celebrate Christmas Day!
Goodbye Finland- thank you for giving us a Christmas we will never forget!
