Nothing says "let's party" like...

Dear Mom,

So, it’s Finnish Independence Day and like everyone else, I’m watching The Unknown Soldier. It’s the story of the Continuation War between Finland and Russia – 3 years, 2 months, 3 weeks and 4 days of fighting that went on after the Moscow Peace Treaty was signed at the end of the Winter War. Those soldiers were tough. But you know what’s even tougher? Watching The Unknown Soldier…every…single…year…

After that, there’s a short break for alcoho… sorry, I mean, dinner, and then it’s time for the Independence Day Ball. It’s literally the television highlight of the year. Millions of people watch….for… four… hours… as… people… shake… hands….

But that’s Finland and that’s how we roll. So keep your fireworks shows and barbeques. Nothing says “let’s party” like a depressing movie and watching 1,800 people wait on line.

I guess I could change the channel, but I’d probably lose my residence permit if I did. And I’ve been here for 25 years, so that would kind of suck. …OMG… wait a second… I just realised I’ve been here for 25 years. That’s a quarter of a century! I should write a book or go on tour or throw a party or something, don’t you think? Maybe I’ll just get all my friends together and crash the Independence Day Ball tonight. Now THAT would be a party.

I love you, Finland. Lissu