Pikkujoulu

The research team that I work with at the University of Jyväskylä, Higher Education and Social Change, invited Charlie and I to attend the annual pikkujoulu (little Christmas party) Thursday night. At 1:30 p.m. we started off at a pub in the city center, Vihreä Haltiata, where GOOD (and expensive) beer is served. Imagine paying 7 euro for a Belgium Kwak--yep, I am a sucker, but so is everyone else. The going rate for a GOOD beer in Finland is around 7 euro...get used to it! The mood was festive and in true Leasa style I brought along a few Christmas hats to add to the festivities. I do love cheesy themed hats and often times a simple hat brings out the HAM (and alter egos) in people--which was the case, especially as the night progressed. After a few beers the party moved to one of the best restaurants in Jyväskylä, Figaro. The food was good, but the presentation was what would bring me back. We ended the night at a local pub where the beer was flowing and the Christmas hats were passed from one person to the next. I have to say I am really grateful for being a part of this research group. There are some brilliant people involved and all of whom are very supportive and interested in my research.