Tampere Train Station

I arrived with Milla in Tampere last night. Despite wanting to stay in Kokkola another day, I thought it best to travel with her yesterday (as she needed to be at work today). Not only was she a second person to help with my two overweight suitcases, but I figured she would need the emotional help when going back to her apartment where she hadn’t been in weeks since her and her boyfriend split up. It wasn’t as bad as I was imagining, but it was hard for her. He had just moved out early yesterday and there was barely anything left. It seemed like most of the stuff in the apartment had been his, or was mutually owned and he decided to claim. He didn’t even leave us any toilet paper. But there were some lights, a couple chairs, most of the dishes, and Milla’s bed; so I figured we were better off than had he cleaned out the entire place out of spite. There’s electricity and heat but no internet or cable, which means we have a place to sleep and eat but nothing much else to do.

I’ve wandered down to the train station to battle with the patchy wireless internet as I wait for Milla to finish up at work. I think tomorrow I’ll give the library a try instead.

As I stare out the window towards the street I have a great view of the taxi line; the site of a past Amazing Race (I have to admit to always imagining myself competing on the show!). I just remember the poor Finns being so confused at the rude Americans cutting into the front of the line – something Finns would just never do! It’s funny, I’ve been to many of the places featured on the show, but always see it on TV after the fact. Now, I can sit here and laugh to myself as I imagine a bunch of crazed racers running through the station on the way to the next clue. Nerdy? I know.