Dinner at Carla's

On February 24th, we gathered together at Carla's lovely home for our American take on a Finnish dinner.  We enjoyed dishes such as lohikeitto (salmon soup), haudutettu punakaali (braised red cabbage, sienipiirakka (mushroom pie), and sipulisalaatti (salad) among other dishes and an absolutely fantastic chocolate dessert.  We had several Rotarian guests with us as well as a former Rotary exchange student who lived in Finland for a year.  It was a real treat to speak with all of them.  I think meeting together, discussing the upcoming trip, and learning about others' experiences with Rotary really creates such an electricity within the group- we couldn't feel more ready to go!

 The table is set.

We enjoyed listening to Merritt Cole's experiences in Finland.

Delicious!

(top L-R) Bill Parker- District Governor, Carla Hughson-Schmitt- GSE leader to Finland, Oscar Wong- Asheville Rotary Club President, & Michael Greene- GSE Committee Chair 

(bottom L-R) Stephanie Laseter, Amber Westall Briggs, Robin Raines, & Brian Rodriguez

the team showing our comic side

Many of these pictures were taken by Bill Biddle, former GSE leader to the Philippines.  Thanks Bill.

Planning

We leave in less than two months! 

I think we all can say with most certainty that it still feels somewhat surreal to be chosen for this group study exchange to Finland.  We have been so warmly accepted into our sponsoring Rotary Club of Asheville and our group itself is developing strong friendships very quickly. 

planning with our team leader

Carla Hughson-Schmitt & Stephanie Laseter

Amber Westall Briggs, Brian Rodriguez & Robin Raines

Preparations are under way for our journey, as we meet about once every two weeks in our central location of Asheville with our enthusiastic leader, Carla, to plan our presentations and share our new knowledge of Finland.  Much anticipation fills these days ahead as we wonder about the exciting adventures that await us in this amazing country.  More to come soon . . .