The dark, proud daughter of the plains is a description many authors from Southern Ostrobothnia have used in their writing. According to them, we women who have grown up in Southern Ostrobothnia are self-sufficient and hard-working. In company we always take our place with style. Pride in this context does not mean arrogance but knowing who you are and where you come from. Writers say we become old women in whom wisdom dwells.

The Parliament of Finland is the most transparent parliament in the world. Everyone has the chance to follow plenary sessions and committee meetings online. Documents are widely published and plenary sessions are broadcasted live on the website.

I vividly recall Rector Ernst Palmén from my university days. He had a very open and relaxed attitude towards students who were involved in the Students’ Union. Palmén had the habit of inviting the board of the Students’ Union to his home every May Day. Many glasses were raised and happy songs sung at his home in Töölö.

My everyday dreams involve other people, culture, exercise, and the world in general. When I have free time, I spent it with my immediate family, relatives and friends. I listen to opera and classical music, watch movies and read novels. Swimming, skiing, Nordic walking, water aerobics, cycling and hiking are all part of my routine.