Summer 2015 was more like a non-summer, even by Finnish standards. Sun and warmth were in short supply until late August when we were finally able to catch some rays of sunshine for a week or so. The cool summer meant that I was not able to enjoy my unique place in the Arctic as much I would have liked to. This place is Luonuasaari, an island in the middle of the Ounasjoki river in Tapionkylä, my home village in the Finnish Lapland.

The uniqueness of the place for me stems from my childhood memories of warm and sunny summer days spent swimming, rowing and exploring the river and the island’s sandy beach. If the river gets shallow enough, sandbanks appear and one can cross the river almost two thirds of the way by walking.

These photos are from July 2014, which was quite the contrast to this year. The water became so warm it was easy to forget that we were actually north of the Arctic Circle. It was nice to rediscover the island after many years of not swimming there. Hopefully next summer will offer more opportunities for me visit this beautiful place and enjoy its unique Arctic summery atmosphere.

 

Text: Marjo Lindroth             Photos: Mika Tenhunen