Life always throws you a twist of fate ever now and again and it makes sure it doesnt go to your head too much. Living here in Finland has brought me closer to my family, and my new family here, not taking life for granted, especially since Sept 11th. I have always lived my life doing as much as I can each and every single day, not worrying about what tomorrow will bring or throw my way. I miss my family and friends in the states very much, and I know they know this, but if I am going to be successful at what I am doing here in Finland, working for Nokia, and being with Hanna, then I must do what I have to do. I actually like living here, as I have grown accustomed to the everyday life of it being very dark in the winter, and very bright during the summer. Adjusting to the winter months, and coming from California, it was not easy, accepting the fact of having to dress in layers as to not freeze to death walking to work or taking the bus to downtown or to a friends home. I have never felt anything any colder than 18*f, but this past Christmas Holiday, it got down to –25*c or –13*f, and the locals have said that this is not the coldest month yet, as Feburary is usually the coldest, getting down to –35*c (-31*f) or below. It is something that may take me awhile to get used to, but I am willing to get used to it. I have a beautiful girlfriend, a lovely home, a great job, and fabulous new friends here in Finland, but I miss all my friends and family back home in California.
I hope all of you enjoyed your Christmas and New Years there, and who knows, maybe I will be there next year with Hanna celebrating it with you all!

more to come soon…

Last night was the best storm to come through yet, it was so cold, I had to shut the windows. Snowed pretty good, but during the day it is really snowing good. Doesn’t look like I am going anywhere tonight, but straight home to a hot meal. Hanna is coming home tomorrow from her stay in Atlanta doing work related projects. It will be nice to have her home finally. Then once she is home, we are off to Kouvola to visit her family for Christmas! Then back to Helsinki for the New Year!
Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year! – From Rob and Hanna!
Look for more to come soon….

Went to Hanna’s parents home last weekend and really had a great time there playing with her little sis, Tiia. It was nice to see them again after being away for such a long time..I am thinking over a month.
The COLD weather is starting to hit us all now. It was -11c yesterday (17.Dec.2001) and very clear day. The sun actually was shinning, which was a blessing as I miss the sun so much. It was nice break from the cold, dark, snowy days here in Helsinki. The sun rises around 9:35am and sets around 3:20pm. Kinda wierd as I leave for work in darkness and come home in darkness. Thank goodness for light bulbs! =)

more to come soon..

Went back to visit my family and friends in San Francisco Bay Area. Had a blast while I was here, going to shopping for xmas gifts, doing the American duty by buying and promoting our economy. Went to a San Jose Sharks game the other night and really had fun. Went on the ice in between the 1st and 2nd period playing for a SJ Sharks hat and we won playing Tug of War on the ice. It was really kewl. Had a blast. Kinda sad that I am leaving going back to the “Frozen Tundra” of Finland, but I am looking forward to going home and being with my sweatheart Hanna as soon as she arrives from Atlanta on Dec 20th. Just a few more weeks. Peace of cake!
Well enough said for now. Gotta get packing.
Look for more to come soon…..