Monday, September 30, 2013

One of my coolest experiences so far

Granted, I've only been here in Finland for about two months, but on Saturday night, I had one of the coolest experiences I think possible: I met a former Prime Minister.

The only recently former Prime Minister of Finland, Matti Vanhanen. He lives in Lepsämä as well, and is a rather personable individual. What I found surprising is that he now takes part in organizing events in and around Lepsämä, but not necessarily running them. Didn't seem to have a giant ego complex either- my point is that he is not your typical politician, as U.S. politicians are reclusive and inclined to grandstanding, even post-office.

 This is a trend that holds for the mainstream Finnish politicians, as my host mother further related a story about running into Tarja Hallonen, at the time, the president, at a public swimming hall. Refreshing that there is no "exclusive" congressional gym.

Oh yes, pictures, and excuse my facial expressions, as speaking Finnish can be exhausting. Only gets worse when this week I add French and German to the mix. Enjoy:


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