W12 – warm September days

Autumn must be getting closer, as the days are getting shorter. However, the days are still filled with a burning sun and up to +30°C. Back home, this is the time of autumn colours and temperatures from 5-10°C. Here, I see trees with yellow leaves and it’s because it’s dry, not because it’s cold.

The contrast between geographical locations is something I have experienced before, but also something that confuses my body and mind. Here, it feels that the summer was long and hot and for some reason it keeps going. I do appreciate the warmth and sun when we still have it and am grateful for the sunsets we witness whilst doing the morning practices. On the other hand, it feels out of place and a bit never-ending.

This week’s tasks have been heavily concentrated on watering, as I was teaching another volunteer how to do the watering responsibility. As the winter comes closer, also the winter preparations have begun. We have done some storage organization, prepping and painting wooden planks to prepare for clay work around some houses, carrying wood, and cooking for the group. I had the idea to make a Vegetarium version of Karelian pies, which turned out to be delicious!

Next week we have lots of events within the community and I am excited to spend time with others.

-Inka