Day 4 - A Midsummer Day

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Today began like any regular day but quickly turned into something far more special, a day filled with family, nature, culture, and deep connection in southern Estonia. We started by visiting Argo’s sister’s beautiful100-year-old home with its flower-filled garden and outhouse, surrounded by forest. I stayed there for a while to shower (our accommodation didn’t have one), and I had some lovely conversations with younger English-speaking locals.

Next, we set off to Argo’s parents' home to celebrate their 53rd wedding anniversary. On the way, we stopped to pick Estonia’s national flower, the vibrant blue cornflower, right from the roadside. Once at the house, the celebrations continued with great food and warm conversations. A highlight was a savoury chicken sandwich cake made by one of Argo’s sisters, I’d only had the fish version before, and this one was even better.

Later, I took some of the kids to a nearby fun park, which completely surprised me with how much it offered, electric cars, go-karts, a disco room, haunted house, and even a mini roller coaster. There was also a section with real diggers that I knew my nephew would have loved. As I looked out over the forest from the park, I felt a strong emotional connection to southern Estonia, like I had really come home.

The day became even more grounding when we visited Estonia’s oldest oak tree, over 800 years old. We formed a circle around it, touching its ancient bark and feeling its energy. I didn’t expect much from the moment, but later I experienced an incredible sense of calm and had one of the best night’s sleep I’ve had in a long time.

That evening, we joined another Midsummer celebration in a nearby village. There were potatoes on a stick, fairy floss, beer, and even a quirky competition to milk a cow and win a rooster. Then came the ceremonial lighting of the bonfire with a flame that had travelled around Estonia, a beautiful tradition linking communities much like the Olympic flame.

It was a day rich in Estonian culture, love, laughter, and peace. Argo’s family were, as always, incredibly kind and welcoming. I already can’t wait to see them again.