Saturday, February 15

We seem to have become busier than ever; busier than in Helsinki, in fact. This afternoon we get our first chance in weeks to have a relaxed afternoon walk to the beach for a swim. We decide to take Shanti swimming, and put our swimsuits on.

We get their to discover that the waves and wind have conspired to make it too dangerous to swim, and the lifeguards have begun blowing their whistles almost as soon as anyone enters the water.

Irma takes Shanti into the shallowest waters while I hold our various bags and shoes. Shanti loves the splashing and the soaking and we promise ourselves that we will return when the waves have turned their setting down to calm.

Afterwards we will go to Leo for a cold beer and then walk home. We planned to wash and then return to the beach to find an uncrowded restaurant, but when we get back we all feel too tired to leave again, and so the meal out turns into fried noodles and eggs at home.