I haven't experienced a true autumn in six years. To be here, in this climate, at this time of year, has been delicious. I feel rejuvenated, like I'm sloughing off all the sweat and sun and sand of previous Octobers.
Two weeks ago, we went hiking in Kurjenrahka National Park. It's not quite peak fall yet, so the colors (ruska - there is a single word for "fall colors") weren't in full force. But it was plenty beautiful. Most of the hiking was through bogs where cranberries grow. There were also lingonberries and blueberries in the woods.
Aside from the beautiful surroundings, there was a fascinating cultural experience midway through the hike.
About 3.5km into the 7km hike, we came upon a small shelter where there was a fire going. One by one, parties of hikers entered the shelter, stoked the fire if necessary (there was chopped wood provided), pulled sausages out of their backpacks, and cooked them on a simple grill over the flames. They turned them with their fingers to cook them evenly, then wrapped them in paper towels fresh off the fire and ate them just so. Every single person in that hut did this, except for us.
But now we know how it's done! And next time we go hiking, we will bring along some makkara for grilling along the way.
